A Handful of Tips 97 – 

                  Criticising Constructively

The five best tips when criticising poor work

Criticism is a form of feedback. If done tactfully it can have positive results.

1. Select the right time and place

Praise in public but always criticise in private.

Choose a quiet time and a place free from interruptions.

If you have a problem tackle it as soon as it occurs or it will escalate.

2. First establish a rapport

Begin with a friendly chat.

Find something to praise in the person’s work before you talk about the standards required.

3. Criticise constructively

Be sensitive to the feelings of the person. Don’t be aggressive in your approach.

Explain where the problem exists and how it can be overcome. Offer help.

4. Focus on the issues, not on the person

Counsel them and seek their views on ways they could improve their performance.

Tell them where they can get further assistance.

5. Finish with encouragement 

Thank them for their cooperation.

Finish by praising their attitude and give a few words of encouragement before you part on a friendly note.

-Geoffrey

“Criticism, like rain, should be gentle enough to nourish a person’s growth.”

Source: “Secrets for New Managers” first published by Moss Associates Ltd., New Zealand and Cengage Learning Asia, Singapore. Also available as an e-book from Amazon.com and VitalSource.