How to Deal With Criticism in the Workplace.

Knowing how to deal with criticism can be something people struggle with. Due to a phenomenon known as negativity bias, you’re more likely to remember the negative comments and criticism over praise. However, not all criticism is bad – getting constructive critiques or feedback can be a useful way to develop our skills and become better at our jobs.

Below, we’ll look at how to deal with negative feedback and criticism in the workplace, and how you might also apply this outside of work too.

What is considered criticism in the workplace?

Criticism is defined as the “disapproval of someone or something on the basis of perceived faults or mistakes” and there are two different types of criticism you may receive in the workplace: destructive and constructive.

What is constructive criticism?

Constructive criticism is when criticism is delivered in a professional way, which in turn encourages an employee or colleague to work on the feedback and develop their skills.

It can help lead to improved performance and increased productivity. But it also:

• Encourages a supportive environment.
• Promotes continuous learning.
• Encourages professional development.
• Strengthens relationships.
• Helps with decision-making.

Example of constructive feedback:

“I really liked your presentation, but next time I think you could add a few more visuals to keep the audience engaged. Keep the first few sections in though, as they were really effective. It’s only slides 8 to 10 that could benefit from a couple of images.”

This:

• Points out what was done well.
• Delivers the criticism in a balanced way.
• Explains exactly how to improve for next time.

What is destructive criticism?

Destructive criticism, also known as negative criticism, has the opposite effect. Rather than leaving people feeling valued, it can cause feelings of inadequacy and give rise to anger.

While both constructive and negative criticism deliver the same message, the constructive version explains what was bad and how you can move forward. It’s a chance to develop.

On the other hand, negative feedback simply points out what was wrong and draws the line there – there are no development opportunities.

Example of negative feedback:

“Your presentation lacked visuals and so wasn’t very engaging. Maybe think about this for the next one.”

This:

• Lacks a positive framing.
• Fails to deliver detailed and actionable feedback.

The recipient of the criticism hasn’t had feedback and may interpret this as a negative comment that doesn’t provide opportunity for growth.

When might you receive criticism at work?

There are a few circumstances when you might receive criticism at work. They can be for a range of reasons including your workload, conduct or attitude.

Criticism can come from a few different people, such as peers, managers and clients.

For example:

• One-to-one meetings with a line-manager.
• During annual performance reviews.
• Feedback from other co-workers.
• Client surveys or scores.
• Complaint emails from customers.
• Online reviews on platforms like Google or TripAdvisor.

How do you handle criticism at work?

Learning how to deal with criticism can be an important aspect of maturing into your career. Below are some tips to help you handle criticism.

See it as useful feedback, rather than taking it personally.

Remember, if you get negative feedback on your work, it’s only about your work. It’s not about you as a person and doesn’t define you. Instead, when you receive criticism, you should see it as an opportunity to develop. Think of it as feedback rather than a complaint and that it could make your work better.

Avoid a negative reaction.

While criticism can lead to emotions such as anger and frustration, its important to know how to respond to negative feedback in order to avoid these reactions. It could lead to you getting further criticism, possibly targeted at your personality, which can lead to further upset. It then gives the critic higher ground and may tarnish your reputation.

Try to appreciate constructive feedback.

Constructive feedback is a useful tool and should be appreciated where possible. Constructive criticism enhances your work and can open up new possibilities through a new perspective. If you’ve only worked on a project for a week, and a more experienced person gives you feedback, it can teach you what you’re getting right and what needs to change.

Accept that everyone makes mistakes, rather than ‘beating yourself up’.

You’re not the first person to make a mistake at work and you won’t be the last person either. Rather than getting upset and frustrated, take it and build upon it. Even if you think the criticism was wrong, you can use it to grow. Who knows, you may prove the critic wrong in the end.

Consider changing processes or behaviours to prevent further issues.

Think about whether you should take the criticism onboard. While there are times you may want to push back on criticism, there will be moments when it should be taken onboard, and you might have to make some changes. If you keep doing the same thing, you may constantly get the same feedback.

How to deal with unfair criticism.

While constructive feedback can be helpful, unfair criticism is often the opposite. This type of feedback usually has a more negative impact, which may be seen as a personal attack or a form of bullying. For example, if the sole intention is to embarrass you and mock your work.

Below are some steps on how to deal with unfair criticism at work.

1. Document the date and details of repeat incidents. If any unfair criticism is delivered over email or messenger platforms, you should keep these as evidence.
2. Speak to the person who delivered the criticism. If you feel comfortable, you can ask them to explain their behaviour.
3. Check your employee handbook. There should be details on what constitutes workplace bullying and the steps you need to take to report it.
4. Reach out to your line manager or HR. You should first reach out to your manager – or if they are the person you want to report, you can contact HR.

Editable email responses to criticism at work.

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Good to know.

How can I positively react to criticism?

You can positively respond to criticism by thanking them for their feedback and explaining your own reasons for why you approached the task that way. Then explain that you will take their feedback onboard in the future.

What is the best response to criticism?

The best response to criticism may be to:

1. Consider the feedback. Is it valid?
2. Assess your processes to accommodate what you can.
3. Draft a response to anything you see as unfair.
4. Ask a friend or colleague to check over this before you send it.

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