Aug 3, 2012

#292: Can I Get Some Feedback? (Friday, August 3)

constructive criticism: advice that is useful and intended to help or improve something, often with an offer of possible solutions -Dictionary.com


When someone asks for your feedback, it's usually because they respect your opinion and judgement. So, when you provide it, it's important to do so in a sensitive and respectful way:

  • Accentuate the positive. Don't just focus on what's wrong, also appreciate what's right.
  • Provide options. It's easy to tell someone what's wrong with their work. It's much harder to provide options to fix it.
  • Suggest, don't tell. Suggestions are usually received better than orders.
And if you're the one asking for the feedback, you're not exempt from the rules:
  • Don't take it personal. Chances are, you've asked for feedback from someone you respect and who has your best interest at heart. Consider their feedback objectively.
  • Use it or lose it. Someone has taken time to review your work. Don't disregard their feedback. Very few people are willing to constantly give feedback if they know you won't use it.
Remember, the key element in "constructive criticism" is to offer possible solutions.

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