Eliminate Criticism

Nothing blows up a relationship faster than criticism. It is led by a judgment, whether consciously or subconsciously. Criticism is personal, destructive, vague, inexpert, ignorant, and selfish. It comes from a place of finding fault.

If criticism is bad, how can you give good feedback and still benefit from the bad? Use critiquing instead. As differentiated from criticism, critique is motivated by the intention to serve the other's goals, not your own.

Criticism is personal, destructive, vague, inexpert, ignorant, and selfish. Critique is impersonal, constructive, specific, expert, informed and selfless. Both are forms of feedback, but critique provides a better learning environment.

Here are the difference between the two:

CRITICISM

• Comes from a position of ignorance.

• Is destructive (what NOT to do).  

• Is selfish (advances critic's goals).

• Is vague (e.g. I don't like the way you speak).

• Focuses on the creator.

CRITIQUE

• Comes from a position of expertise. 

• Is constructive (offers improvements, what TO do). 

• Is selfless (respects the other's goals, not what the critic wants).

• Is specific (e.g. Your speaking could be improved if you talked louder).

• Focuses on the creation.

Criticism does not lead people to change behavior. Instead it creates anger and defensiveness on the part of the person criticized. Communication between the parties is shackled, and positive relationships impeded.

As a leader, you are often placed in the position of taking exception to how or what another person or subordinate is doing. It is not a pleasant role, and if poorly handled can reap havoc with any relationship, even a good one.

Are you ready to change your approach?   Do you need help learning effective critique?

Email me at: info @ thegiftedleader.com