How often have you heard your boss offer an advice and taken it in the wrong stride? Maybe many times, as most of us assume that if somebody is trying to correct us, it is because they want to put this down. However, that is not true, and not all criticism is bad for you.
Before jumping to conclusions, it is essential to understand how to react when someone offers advice or suggestion. Let us read what to do in such a situation and accept criticism gracefully.
Don’t Be In A Rush To React To The Feedback
First and foremost, don’t hurry to offer a reaction to the suggestion or advice offered. Just smile, step back, and leave the situation if it makes you feel uncomfortable. Go back to your seat and think calmly about whether the other person’s opinion makes sense.
There is no hurry, and you can take your time to grasp the meaning of the feedback. It is possible that the other person misunderstood your work, and hence his criticism is uncalled for. In that case, you will have to build a case with arguments to prove your point.
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Thank The Other Person For The Feedback
After you have heard the other person through, make sure to thank them. Look straight in the eyes and appreciate that they took the time to share their thoughts. This may not be easy if you have not liked what they said. However, being a professional, any immature approach can be taken in the wrong sense.
By thanking the person offering feedback, you are not saying you agree with their opinion. It is just a sensible way of taking an opinion. If you become defensive, chances are they may not offer their feedback to you again.
Show Accountability For Your Mistakes
Maybe the feedback is correct, or a third party has complained against you. In that case, you must own up and accept your mistakes. This would be the first step in showing that you actually care about the manager’s opinions. Your showing accountability reflects that you are a dependable and adaptable employee willing to change as per the situation.
Take Suitable Action
Now that you know your manager’s response, you will have to do something about it. Create a plan that would address the issues arising. For example, if the manager is unhappy with your time management skills. You can start by dividing your tasks into slots, so each one of them finishes as per the deadline.
Or maybe you are unable to balance your personal and professional life. You will have to demarcate boundaries so you can figure out a solution next time a similar situation arises.
Follow Up With The Manager
You have taken corrective measures, but have they been noticed? Find out from your manager if he is happy with the changes in you. This will reinforce their belief that you are a game changer and someone willing to adjust.
Your approach to this feedback and efforts made can change the negative attitude of the manager into a positive one. Later, you can follow up further to ask if there is anything else they expect from you.
Read More: 7 Effective Ways To Improve Your Communication Skills
Seek Feedback Often
If you want to grow, you should be open to changes people suggest. Next time someone provides negative feedback, ensure you return to them again until they are satisfied. Apart from them, you can also talk with other colleagues to know other areas where you need to work. This approach works best when you are just starting your career. It helps you to establish a strong rapport and improve the soft skills you are missing.
Summing Up
Whether in an official setup or at a personal level, negative feedback is not taken in the right stride. So next time someone points out your mistakes take a deep breath and check if you are actually blundering. However, if you want to avoid the situation from worsening do follow the steps we mentioned above. This would help you become a better person and learn to live your life to its fullest.
A dedicated writer, editor, and cannabis enthusiast, he holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from California State University, Northridge. His diverse academic background spans journalism, accounting, international finance, and business administration. As an accomplished content strategist, his marketing prowess yields proven results. With an extensive portfolio of published articles and successful campaigns, he prioritizes crafting engaging, accurate, and SEO-optimized content. Proficient in WordPress, Microsoft Office Suite, Hootsuite, Photoshop, and more. Beyond the keyboard, he enjoys yoga, travel, and quality time with his three cherished feline companions.
