Truly, constructive criticism conveys that indispensable degree of honesty through a combination of credibility and skilled diplomacy
That quote came from an excellent article on AskMen.com.
The article lists 8 points on giving constructive criticism:
- Omit character traits
- Frame your criticism in appropriate language
- Get your facts straight
- Keep emotions in mind and in check
- Focus on what can be done, not what’s been done
- Empathize
- Utilize reason, not personal preference
- Allow time for a response
I would add that appropriate language involves removing the word “you” as much as possible. As an example, you could say:
You did not come across as sincere.
Or you could say:
I did not feel sincerity come across when I listened to the speech.
The first way seems to be stating a fact that the problem lies with the recipient. The second way clearly suggests that this is a personal opinion.
Focusing on what can be done is critical. In the above example, only mention that you didn’t feel sincerity if you have a suggestion for how that sincerity could be conveyed. As an example, maybe the recipient could maintain eye contact longer. Without the specific suggestion, the criticism is a waste.
Posted under General
This post was written by john on November 10, 2008
