Seven Ways To Respond To Criticism

What is your response when criticized? You might say it depends on:

– how well you know this person

– if you like this person

– if you have given them permission to weigh in

– if it was communicated in a kind way

It should not matter…

While it may be easier to take if it came from a well-known, likeable, kind person who was given permission, ultimately it should not matter if you want to grow. Any critique is an opportunity for you as a leader, employee, family member or friend to hear some input that could be very valuable for you relationally and possibly financially. Even if it comes from a mean-spirited enemy, take a moment to consider if there is something to be gained in this situation. The deliverer may have not meant it for your good, but you can redeem it and grow from it.

Seven Ways To Respond

How should you respond to criticism? Here are seven ways to consider:

Resist the temptation to get defensive or even go on the offensive. This makes you appear insecure and impedes your growth opportunity.
Get curious and ask for clarification to make sure you fully understand the issue. “Seek to understand rather than to be understood,” St. Francis of Assisi. Your mind can run ahead with a response before you fully comprehend what is being said.
Take notes of the comment and clarification for future consideration. Your emotions in the moment may hinder you from honest reflection. Writing it down also communicates that you are taking the critique seriously.
Thank them for caring enough to help you grow if it can be done without sarcasm or condescension. If not, then leave this step out.
Act rather than react by briefly responding with the intention of your critiqued words or actions.
Let them know that you are going to consider what was shared and, if needed, will get back with them.
Take time to reflect on your notes and see if there is any truth in what was communicated to you. If it was true, then consider adjustments needed to grow in this area and any relational repairs required. If this was not true, then move on and realize this is the price of being proactive and a leader.

Leadership is not for the thin-skinned. The best leaders understand who they are at their core and regularly invite input to help them keep growing.

What strategies are you using to grow more secure as a leader every day?

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