No one is perfect. At some point, you’ll do something at work that some people – your colleagues, your boss, your immediate superior — may not like or agree with. Criticisms are part of the work environment. Some people can handle criticisms well, but there are those who are not equipped to handle it. That is why it is important to learn effective ways to handle criticisms.
Effective Ways To Handle Criticisms While Working
To effectively handle criticism there are two things you need to realize – criticisms can help you improve and there is a difference between constructive criticism and malicious attacks.
Remove yourself from the situation
The type of criticism we receive can have a huge effect on how we will react. Of course, we will be thrilled if we get positive reinforcements and get defensive if the criticism is negative. The best technique you can use is to detach yourself from what is happening and look at the comment with a more objective perspective. This way you can better gauge if the criticism you received was done with good intentions. Imagine the criticism being directed at another person – do you think it’s the kind of comment you will take to heart or ignore?
Write down the criticism
Another way to detach your emotions from the criticism is to write about it. This also makes the criticism an actionable item that you can fulfill. For example, if you often get criticized for not providing enough information then list it down in your to do list to remind you that you need to give your colleagues all of the information you can provide.
Look at the person criticizing you
Effective ways to handle criticisms include looking at the person who’s giving it. Is he a person whose opinions are something you value? If the criticisms are being given by your boss then it’s something you really need to think about and act upon.
Modify your attitude
This may be the hardest tip to follow but also the most effective in dealing with criticism. Look at criticism from a different angle, so to speak. Instead of holding a grudge or feeling defensive or deflated, act on the criticism and treat it as a way for you to further improve yourself as a person.
About The Author
Sean Stone operates a well-respected site that help people find jobs.
