How to Offer Constructive Criticism

Pick your words and prepare your manner carefully if you really want to help with advice and criticism.

Step 1: Reflect and prepare Reflect on what you want to say to the person and prepare a clear message. Be honest with yourself regarding any ill will you might harbor.
Step 2: Maintain respect Maintain unconditional respect for the person. Everyone, including you, is doing the best they can.
Step 3: Know the situation Document and praise the other’s efforts, intentions, and accomplishments. Before raising reservations about their performance, be complimentary.
TIP: Try to conduct the conversation privately, away from prying eyes.
Step 4: Listen closely Ask questions and invite them to explain their view of things. This could change the criticisms you offer.
Step 5: Consider their power to absorb State your case, taking into account their compromised power to absorb information in such a tense circumstance.
Step 6: Criticize the behavior Criticize the behavior, not the person. Accept criticism as well, knowing that mistakes are normal for everyone.
TIP: Follow the Golden Rule of treating others as you would be treated in all your dealings with others.
Step 7: Expect realistic results Expect no more from others than you would from yourself. Craft achievable goals with their participation so you’re both on the same page.
Step 8: Reinforce the message Reinforce the message to get agreement on what both parties understood, and what the plan for correction will be.
FACT: Universities now offer over 100 degree programs in conflict resolution.