5 steps to giving constructive criticism

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At one point, we all watched in horror as our co-worker completely ruined a project, then turned to ask, “So how did I do it?”

In these situations, once we get over that initial desire to answer a non-existent phone call, we are faced with a decision: tell them the truth, in whatever brusque and critical way we think, or try to help via constructive comments.

Related: How to Handle Employees Who Avoid Criticism

Knowing how to give constructive criticism is one of the most important skills needed in the business world, and in all areas of life in fact. People need our feedback to become their best selves, but if the criticism is not given in the right way, it can be meaningless and/or destructive.

So how do you do constructive criticism? I have developed a five-point checklist. Respect it and you can turn those awkward moments into real growth experiences.

1. Pick the right time.

Never criticize in the moment. Nobody wants to come down from the podium and find a friend who says he spoke too soon, his arguments were inconclusive and the speech went on too long. In the moment, say something nice, then pick a better time to give advice.

2. Check yourself.

Do you really mean what you say, or are you using the disguise of “constructive criticism” to hide personal baggage or issues you are having with this person?

Related: How to Give Constructive Feedback to a Toxic Boss

3. Use a “straw man”.

If someone feels personally threatened by what you say, their defenses will go up and they won’t be able to internalize your criticism. Try giving the criticism through a personal anecdote or an inspiring story from a famous person who has been through the same thing. It’s so much easier to swallow when it’s not directly about “you” and “your” mistakes.

4. Focus on the actions, not the person.

The person is not lazy, his paper was just sloppy. The person is not incompetent, the editing process was just incomplete. Make sure you don’t focus on the person themselves, but rather on what they did.

5. Don’t share your comments until you need to.

If someone is about to finish a big project or a speech, now is not the time to start telling them everything that could have been done better. Instead, wait until it’s about to start again. Then you can launch into your critique, keeping in mind the previous four steps, of course.

Remember, criticism, misused, can offend and threaten those around us. But used wisely, constructive criticism can be a catapult for growth and improvement.

Related: 5 Ways to Stop Stunting Your Business Growth

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