Many people find it difficult to accept criticism of their work and many managers have difficulty criticizing in a constructive manner. Dealing with criticism requires poise, self-assurance, and a positive attitude. And on the other hand, effective criticism requires balance and a nonpersonal approach.

In the current economic climate in which many employees are anxious about their job security, it can be a difficult environment for constructive criticism. A manager’s goal, when criticizing staff, should be to improve performance and the criticism, in order to be effective, must be understood and corroborated by the colleague criticized.

There are several rules of thumb one can keep in mind when giving or getting criticism, to help foster what should be the goal of any criticism: to improve collaboration and efficiency.

Read More »