Criticism comes from many different sources. It could stem from an older or a younger person, an acknowledged expert in a certain field or an ordinary practitioner, a manager or a peer. The source makes a difference in how the criticism is received. A negative reception can be damaging to a work relationship and make working together difficult in the future. This does not mean that feedback negative or positive should be avoided. Constructive feedback leads to improvement. These six guidelines may be helpful to you in giving criticism.
Criticize the act, not the person.
First empathize, then criticize.
Keep your comments at a professional and intellectual level, not at an emotional level.
Concentrate on the solution, not placing blame.
Criticize in private. Make sure you are not overheard.
Get the facts straight. Make sure the criticism is warranted.
MCN Staff