Effective Praise, Effective Criticism

Establishing Trust for Better and Effective Communication

Mar 18, 2009 Mario Carini

No one likes to be criticized. Even if the intent is well-meaning, criticism is taken as a personal offense. When it is, it shuts the door to further communication.

Few people have learned how to deliver artful criticism. Parents, CEOs and the leaders of nations are all guilty of employing the wrong methods to move people to do what they want by delivering blatant criticism. Charles Schwab, well-known steel magnate of United States Steel Corp. and Bethlehem Steel said, “I have yet to meet the man, however great or exalted his station, who did not do better work and put forth greater effort under a spirit of approval than he would ever do under a spirit of criticism.”

The art of using criticism effectively is never taught in schools though it should be. There are correct methods that effective leaders employ to insure action is taken and trust is established in the one who receives it.

Leave out the Emotions

For some people, criticism is an ego trip, just a way to prove superiority over another. Parents are often guilty in using criticism as a way to vent out their frustration and anger toward their children. Whether it's an ego trip or fueled by anger, criticism is never effective if it is delivered with negative emotions.

Emphasize Ability

Everyone learns by making mistakes. The best way to correct mistakes is by finding something to praise before criticism is given. Showing faith and confidence in the abilities and talents of the one being criticized establishes the groundwork for effective communication. People will be more willing to listen once they know the intention is to be helpful.

Build a Foundation of Trust

Building a foundation of trust should occur months before anyone is called to the carpet. Praise works for employees and children equally. The top leaders of any corporation dish out praise and appreciation regularly and publicly. Genuine praise is not flattery. The employee is more willing to listen to advice when he knows his employer has faith in his abilities.

Deliver it in the Form of Advice

Advice and suggestion given the right way can help the offense seem easy and simple to correct. The one in charge should provide some examples of similar mistakes he or she made and were resolved. Mistakes are never permanent. But when it is given, it should also emphasize the need for some kind of action from the recipient of the advice.

Let Them Talk it Out

There may be a good reason why an employee does not do as he is expected. Rather than launch into a tirade, take the time to listen to their reasons. Don't interrupt or try to find fault when they talk about it. They must know that there is rapport and and a willingness to understand them. Letting them talk often helps them see their own mistake and they will be more than willing to correct it.

When All Else Fails, Give a Warning

A calm approach works well in may cases. But sometimes an irate employee refuses to listen or act once advice is given. In such a case authority and a stern approach is required. That doesn't mean shouting back when they shout. Listening is still a requirement as it can diffuse a heated tirade to where the warning can be delivered. Agreeing on some points helps deflect potential arguments. Once peace has been established, a stern warning for change should be delivered along with a deadline. It should be made plain that appropriate action will be taken if there is no change.

Constructive criticism is an art. Emotion and not logic is what stirs up anger and resentment. Knowing how to handle every situation with tact and diplomacy is what makes a better leader, better able to inspire trust and ensure that everyone will stay loyal and focused on the company goals without strife for many years to come.

The copyright of the article Effective Praise, Effective Criticism in Business Management is owned by Mario Carini. Permission to republish Effective Praise, Effective Criticism in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Trsut and Devotion for Better Communication

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