The Positives Of Constructive Criticism

So-called “constructive criticism” can help us move forward with our processes. These differ from destructive criticism in their aim.

Normally, constructive criticism is done with the aim of helping. However, when we try to hurt a person, we can use destructive criticism. Although the latter can hurt us, the fact is that we need the former to improve and grow as people.

What is constructive criticism?

We could define constructive criticism as an opinion given to someone (or ourselves) with the aim of helping. It is a mature, respectful and responsible attitude towards whoever is directed.

The value of constructive criticism is based on the purpose : to achieve a favorable change in the other, to collaborate to make them a better person, etc.

However, in many cases, giving our point of view from a totally altruistic position is badly considered. It is believed that it is to meddle in what happens to third parties or that it is a way of disqualifying what they do. Nothing further from reality! Constructive criticism develops respectable values ​​in ourselves.

Some of them are loyalty, honesty, and respect. However, as is often misunderstood, it would be good to advise what our intention is before making the corresponding criticism. Thus, we will avoid misunderstandings and a better predisposition of whoever receives our comment.

What is the difference with destructive criticism? There are several points where both attitudes differ. In the case of destructive criticism, this is the one that does not contribute anything good, but has the objective of annoying, harming, etc.

It is true that they are not always said on purpose, but they can be really unbearable. And worst of all, destructive criticism tends to be more repetitive than constructive criticism.

The former are often expressed in a discussion or during a problem. The second, in any daily situation and to avoid inconveniences in the future. Destructive criticism attacks … while constructive criticism tries to help.

Read also How to protect ourselves against negative energies

How to offer constructive criticism?

Many times we want to help someone and things do not end up as we expected. There may be a misunderstanding or feedback that we did not want. The constructive complaint process is based on three phases:

• Start with a positive point.
• Express criticism in a simple way and without hurting susceptibilities.
• End with an optimistic opinion to encourage change.

When constructive criticism is received, we should be flattered. Having someone with these kinds of attitudes towards us should be inspiring and motivating if we know their good intention.

As an article published in the Journal of Behavioral Studies in Business indicates , there is a method called “sandwich” to give this type of criticism that helps. Sometimes it can be difficult to get it done from start to finish… but it is worth the effort! The steps are:

1. Discuss the target topic

It would be good if you did not use words or phrases such as “you did not do it”, “you are missing”, “you should”, and so on. The idea is not to attack the person, but to make him better. So better if you go from a personal criticism to a global opinion.

For example, instead of saying “you don’t explain well to clients”, we can say “clients are not getting what they need”.

2. Talk about the good things

It’s easier to start a conversation with someone if you compliment them first. That is one of the maxims in marketing or in politics. It’s really a challenge to say the positive first before the negative.

Praise the strengths and abilities first and encourage the other to keep it that way. Later, when it is time to deliver the “bad news,” the interlocutor will not feel so bad or so pressured.

3. Show evidence

It is not simply a matter of saying what is being done wrong or how it could be improved. It is also interesting to add some indication, a study, etc.

Sometimes we do not have research on a particular topic but we can cite direct consequences of such a task : “I have noticed that every time customers understand the benefits of the product they buy it” continuing with the initial example.

4. Get on the same level

What would you feel or think if the other person told you the same thing that you just said? If it’s a bad thing, then find a better way to start the conversation.

It is not very positive to speak from a position of superiority. It is better to do it as equals, to show that you want to help. You can use a similar situation that happened to you and show how you solved it.

For example, you can say: “when customers did not buy the products, I would tell them more about them”.

5. Reaffirm confidence

Telling the other that you have faith that they will improve and change is very positive and is one of the best ways for constructive criticism to have the desired effect. Express that you trust the abilities and skills of the other, assure them that things will improve.

What if they give you constructive criticism?

Of course others can (and should) do it. There are many benefits to accepting positive complaints. Some of them:

Constructive criticism allows improvement

Knowing how to accept that we are wrong is the first step to improve and change. But it also shows how responsible we are with ourselves and how we can strengthen our qualities.

If they tell us that we do something wrong, it is because the other wants us to be better people.

Constructive criticism helps control pride

It is not easy to accept the error. Therefore, if we have the ability to accept both the criticism of others and our own, it is because our desire to improve is greater than pride.

Constructive criticism also helps avoid conflict

Learning to handle constructive criticism from others serves to solve internal problems as well as external and social problems. Putting yourself in the place of the other is really very productive.

And you, how do you give and receive criticism?

Putting yourself in the other person’s shoes is key in these cases. In any case, if you need more information about constructive criticism, we recommend consulting the bibliography.