Constructive Criticism
Constructive criticism is the process of offering rational and well-reasonable opinions or viewpoint about the work of others. Constructive criticism consists of both positive and negative comments but they are delivered in a friendly way and not in a judgemental manner. Constructive criticism basically consists of a set of suggestions given when there is a scope of improvement. The suggestions given are usually specific and helpful and are aimed at the overall betterment related to an issue. Constructive is very different from critique (which is only negative feedback), as it only includes specific and timely feedback also including useful strategies and is only given with the intent of support, encouragement and skill improvement.
For instance, when someone comes up with a new idea for a product, his superiors or his colleagues can share their opinions with him in order to support, motivate and improve his initial idea. The below-given image is an example of constructive criticism.
Value of Constructive Criticism
If used properly and with good intentions, constructive criticism can prove to be a very useful tool. As long as the constructive criticism is approached with an appropriate and correct manner it can be invaluable. Constructive criticism not only can enrich a person’s professional life but it can also have a positive impact on their personal life. In short, it can be said that it is very essential for both professional as well as personal growth. Embracing it wholeheartedly is the only way to step up on the ladder of success.
Characteristics of Constructive Criticism
1. Right Intention
Constructive criticism is always delivered with the right intentions and is never given with the intent to insult or belittle the person on the receiving end, as the main goal behind giving this criticism is to refine or enhance someone’s performance.
2. Logical and Systematic
Constructive criticism should never be biased or unfair, and should always be dominated by correct reasons and logic. It should be delivered in a systematic manner meaning that one should be well prepared before giving it and should always start with positive feedback first leading to the negative comments and ending at an encouraging note.
3. Usually given in private
Constructive criticism is not a confrontation and should always be given in form of a conversation aimed at giving the feedback (often negative) but with a friendly tone and in private. The delivery of constructive criticism goes smoothly when given face to face but not publically.
Benefits of Constructive Criticism
1. Improves bonding and Trust
Constructive criticism enhances the trust between the employer and the employee and it can also prove to be beneficial in improving the bonding of a person at his workplace. This is the biggest benefit of embracing the culture of constructive criticism as it helps in maintaining a positive and harmonious work environment.
2. No Resentment
The other advantage of this approach is that it doesn’t hurt anybody’s pride and thus the scope of resentment among the employees or people at work is very little. People on the receiving end of constructive criticism know that it is delivered with good intentions and will only be helpful for them in the long run. Therefore it reduces the risk of offence or resentment among the people at a workplace.
3. Improved Productivity
As stated earlier constructive criticism is only given with a specific goal, which is the improvement of a particular issue. That is why it helps in the overall productivity because the suggestions or feedback only helps in improving a particular issue or product or service.
At the end, it can be said that constructive criticism is an indispensable tool and can prove to be advantageous for both the employer as well as the employee. Still, one thing should be kept in mind that criticism whether positive or negative always has the scope of teaching us something.