Criticizing other people in hurtful ways is a good way to obtain enemies, so what ways can we offer criticism that gets heard by people in a constructive, helpful way? What are some true ways to seek helpful advice when you need it?
Recognize and compliment the good in other people. Note that you are criticizing a small thing in a big project/organization/etc. Realize the good before touching on the not good parts.
Be specific on the offering of your suggestions for improvement. Don't let your ego get in the way of explaining in full detail the good and the bad of a project or organization. Make sure to be specific and offer the best advice.
Choose your words carefully. Refuse to speak demeaning, curse words. Make sure to only speak kind words, but be bold or firm about your expressions of criticism. There are positive and negative ways to offer criticism. Don't attack the person, but attack the problem - so to speak.
Admit you're wrong, when needed. If you happen to be incorrect about something, make sure to admit it, so the person accepting the criticism doesn't think you're egotistical, or ridiculous.
Be a good listener. When you're criticizing, if you didn't hear all the details about something, you may be criticizing off the wrong foot. Make sure to have all of your details together and know what you're talking about before saying something. It makes people mad if somebody just walks in, listens for a moment, and just starts criticizing and adding their own opinion(s).
Give an answer/solution. When someone has a problem, they need a solution, not something to create more of a problem. So, when you speak with criticism, make sure it's more of a solution, rather than something to add to a problem.
This should provide some better solutions for your constructive criticism skills. Please share this story, and comment if you like!
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