“You could be doing a better job.”

If you take pride in the effort you put into your job, hearing those words can hurt. No one wants to be told they aren’t up to snuff. Though constructive criticism is sometimes hard to handle, it indicates the person delivering it thinks you’re capable, that they value you and want to bring out your best. And if you can’t take criticism, you’re selling yourself short.

During the summer following my freshman year of college, I took an internship at a local newspaper. Toward the end of the summer, I was given the opportunity to write a feature story and took the task very seriously. I worked hard on the piece for many days before submitting a story I was proud of to the editor. Within 30 minutes it was back on my desk with more red ink than black. I felt frustrated and defeated. 

I read through the corrections and suggestions and implemented them to the best of my ability. After a few volleys back and forth with the editor, I had an approved draft that made the cut for print. It was so much better than my original draft, I was almost embarrassed of the piece I originally submitted. 

Remembering that moment and many others like it was and still is invaluable. When I joined the crew here at COLE Publishing, I was entering an industry I knew little about and doing a job I had very limited experience with. Luckily, I had a team of people around me willing to tell me when I needed to be better, and most importantly, how to be better. 

Take it like a champ

Now, there is a big difference between constructive criticism and someone just simply being a jerk, and it all comes down to intention. Are they saying what they’re saying to help, or just to be snarky and put you down? 

Usually, it’s not hard to identify their aim, and if it’s coming from the right place, be open to it. Don’t get defensive or just listen to get them to stop talking and go back to the same old way you were doing things. Even if the person delivering the feedback isn’t someone you particularly get along with, do your best to concentrate on the information that might be useful and not the person behind the words. If someone has taken the time to respectfully explain things you could be doing better, reflect on what they said and give implementing the suggestions an honest try. 

What can sometimes be even more difficult, but equally important is the power to self-criticise. The ability to observe when someone does something better than you and the willingness to study and learn from them is a trait that is hard to teach, but very valuable.

The right delivery

Now, what if you’re in a position to deliver the criticism? This can be tricky and needs to be done in the right way. If you come across condescending or embarrass the person, your message will not be heard. 

First, ensure you aren’t delivering the criticism of someone in front of others. Choose a private setting and address that person soon after the issue occurred. Right from the beginning, let them know your goal is to help and balance the negative with positive. Start by letting them know they are doing a really good job overall, but there are some things you’ve noticed they could improve on.

Also, avoid generalizations. Instead of “You never do this according to protocol,” say “I noticed the last time you operated that machine, you didn’t do this.” 

And always be sincere and empathetic. Let the person know you respect them and your goal is to help them improve.

Take it from customers

Also remember constructive criticism comes from outside the company, too. Take business reviews seriously and ask customers what they thought of your service and what you could have done differently. 

I will ask the same of you. Let me know what we could be doing differently here. What things do you want to see in future issues? I’m always open to suggestions and value your thoughts. 

Thanks for reading!