How To Offer Constructive Criticism

Maintain unconditional respect for the person. Everyone, including you, is doing the best they can.

Document and praise the other’s efforts, intentions, and accomplishments. Before raising reservations about their performance, be complimentary.

Ask questions and invite them to explain their view of things. This could change the criticisms you offer.

State your case, taking into account their compromised power to absorb information in such a tense circumstance.

Criticize the behavior, not the person. Accept criticism as well, knowing that mistakes are normal for everyone.

Expect no more from others than you would from yourself. Craft achievable goals with their participation so you’re both on the same page.

Reinforce the message to get agreement on what both parties understood, and what the plan for correction will be.