Few people enjoy hearing bad things about themselves, their behavior or their work, no matter how constructive the criticism is. However, such criticism is inevitable, and with the right approach, you can use it to take positive action and even build your own confidence. Follow the next few tricks to get into a better mindset.
1. This is easier said than done, but don?t take the criticism personally. See it as a comment on your behavior, rather than on you as a person. In fact, most cases of constructive criticism occur because people want to see you do well. They want the best for you. Let yourself be the best person possible.
2. Take responsibility for the causes of the criticism; for example, if your co-workers see you as disorganized because you are constantly late to work, own up to your lateness. Take immediate action. Compile a list of suggestions from your supervisor and co-workers on how to arrive on time or research the issue yourself. Create a plan to arrive on time and follow through.
3. Working on improving yourself is a tailor-built chance to get to know your supervisor or mentor better. After all, you probably have regularly scheduled meetings to discuss your progress. Certainly talk about that, but also use the time with your boss to ask about other matters that help your job development. Most other employees don?t get this valuable alone time!
4. Use the criticism to better understand your role. This can be especially maddening in situations when you?re criticized for not doing something you didn?t even realize you were supposed to do. However, this is an opportunity to ask questions to better understand what people expect of you. It?s also a chance for you to take a broader look at yourself. Are there other areas in which you could improve?
