Accepting constructive criticism in the job without feeling bad about yourself or the person who gave you the input is difficult. When we are intimidated at work, we frequently feel targeted and activate our fight or flight response.
Many of us can respond defensively in the heat of the moment, but learning to value constructive criticism can help you grow as an employee and a person.
Here are some pointers on how to respond to comments in the workplace more positively:
Fight your defensive tendencies: When you're aware that you're about to receive some criticism, try not to respond right away. You have a one-second window to think and halt your reaction. Although a negative reaction to someone approaching you with comments may seem small, remaining calm can help you improve your relationship with that individual.
A blunder with a facial expression or a hasty retort to them could lead to a dispute.
Assume someone is providing feedback with the best of intentions: If you're the type of person who feels singled out when a coworker gives you feedback, give them the benefit of the doubt. Keep in mind that your ordinary employee isn't coming to jeopardize your job or threaten you with retaliation. They are merely attempting to assist you in improving your job performance or completing a task more quickly.
People who give you comments at work usually have good intentions, and getting defensive might lead to problems in your professional relationships. You could potentially burn a bridge with a coworker who provides you with excellent advise.
If we feel like we're being singled out, we can become unhappy about our work and believe we're not good enough. Remember that you are deserving, and there's no need to be unhappy if you receive some negative feedback on your job.
Refocus your thinking: If you've been phoning it in at work for a long time, you should expect a coworker to give you some comments on your work performance.
You can use feedback as a challenge to better in the future if you can redirect your thinking and have faith in your job, knowing that you are doing your best. It's not simple to redirect your thinking, but you should feel like you can give it your all every day when you go to work.
You may be certain that you will be able to maintain stronger relationships, and you will likely receive less negative feedback as a result of your efforts.
Expect little recognition and appreciation: Many people are motivated by rewards and praise. These are the types of people who will not go above and above until they are praised for it. If you are the type of person who expects praise and gratitude at work on a regular basis, you may find yourself doing the bare minimum until you are praised for doing something more.
In most cases, you will not get rewarded for simply doing your job at work. There's no reason you should anticipate constant praise and gratitude just for fulfilling your job responsibilities. This does not, however, imply that your coworkers must show you constant gratitude.
Appreciate the feedback: After someone has provided you with feedback, saying thank you and appreciating the time they spent to share their opinions can be a valuable gesture.
It should be recognized and acknowledged if they are eventually attempting to improve your career or abilities. Negative feedback is frequently given by someone who wishes to see you improve and flourish.
Someone seeing you at work does not have to be a bad thing; it may be appreciated and analyzed so that you can find harmony and make adjustments.
If you want to succeed, make sure to follow these guidelines.