What do you do if you receive harsh criticism at work?

Denzel Washington quoted "You’ll never be criticized by someone who is doing more than you. You’ll always be criticized by someone doing less. Remember that."

Stay Calm and Professional: Don't get defensive or emotional. Focus on the Issue, Not the Person: Separate the feedback from the person delivering it. Take Time to Process: If you need a moment to collect yourself, ask for a pause in the conversation. Consider the Source: Is this a trusted colleague or someone with a history of negativity?

Having been in a similar situation many moons ago, being severely criticised will affect your confidence and self belief. Especially during a change of management or leadership where the new leaders will try to clean house and pick favourites. Criticism whilst valid in some cases, is not a direct reflection on you more so a reflection on the person being harsh to you. Try not to take things personally, focus on yourself and self improvement, either work twice as hard to get better internally or begin to look to move elsewhere. However, if you have trust and rapport with leadership, being criticised even if it is severe can be a positive, which can help you reach another level. Sir Alex Fergusons hair dryer treatment springs to mind!

Often times, "harsh" criticism is interpreted that way only because we feel it is harsh. But is it true? Is it clear? Is it helpful? Feedback is a gift. Consider that the feedback-giver may be feeling nervous about providing you with constructive feedback. Stay calm. Thank them. And grow.

Criticism should be taken positively always and the first rule is really to Stay Calm and absorb what has been said. Responding to it should be done after thorough reflection only.

It's crucial to approach such feedback with a sense of composure and openness, recognizing that it offers valuable insights into areas where improvement is needed. Actively listening to the critique, seeking clarification where necessary, and reflecting on its validity can help transform it from a source of frustration into an opportunity for development. Moreover, reaching out to colleagues or mentors for support can provide additional perspectives and guidance in navigating the feedback constructively. Embracing criticism as a stepping stone to advancement, setting tangible goals, and taking proactive steps towards improvement can ultimately lead to professional growth and resilience in the face of future challenges.

Probe for details on how to improve. Feedback helps us see how we impact others. Without feedback, we are likely to just continue along on our day and think all is well. As clarifying questions. Allow the other person to help you grow.

Receiving Harsh Criticism When I receive harsh criticism at work, I focus on listening fully and actively. This means not just hearing the words but truly understanding their intent. I avoid interrupting, showing respect and openness to the feedback, even if it's tough to hear. This approach often diffuses tension and helps clarify what areas I need to improve. Reflective Pause After listening, I take a moment to reflect before responding. This reflective pause allows me to consider the criticism objectively and formulate a thoughtful response or ask insightful questions. This strategy helps me address the feedback more effectively and demonstrates my commitment to professional development and constructive engagement.

Recently I received one and it did not personally affect me. A year back if you had asked, I would have said it did not allow me to sleep or have a peace of mind But now, it’s always like I know who I am and what I’m capable of! These are very strong affirmations and acts of self love and discipline I follow these -Never been in a state you won the world when someone appreciates you at work because what matters is consistency not mere recognitions -Never take words personal, only accept positive criticism These rules are game changer No one knows what you’re going through and if you receive such, remember that,they might be going through something. Also if you’re sure they are really concerned about you can take the feedback and act.

Take a deep breath and search for the truth behind the delivery. Evaluate honestly whether there is something you can do better. Ask for more specific feedback- and for suggestions on different solutions if appropriate. Strive to do better the next day and remember that you, like everyone else, make mistakes.

You have to take into consideration the source and context. Is this a person you respect but either bad at form or just frustrated? Is she fed up with you, your performance, her job, her idiot kid, the world? Is this a moron that can only feel taller by making others shorter? Is it someone with power / authority over your career, direct or indirect?

Another view here is that any criticism usually means that the person giving the feedback, has an interest in your work and progress. Often, how critique is given is sometimes too direct, and many don't know how to soften it, and it ends up being received as too harsh. If you are in the situation of giving feedback, understand a little bit more about the background and culture of the person you are educating, this to avoid any bad feelings that may jeopardize the working relationship.

Responding to Harsh Criticism When I receive harsh criticism at work, I ensure my response is thoughtful and respectful. If the feedback is valid, I acknowledge it and express my commitment to making improvements. For any misunderstandings, I provide clarifications calmly and factually. Responding appropriately helps me maintain professionalism and can transform a challenging critique into a productive dialogue. Continuous Feedback Loop Additionally, I suggest establishing a continuous feedback loop with the critic. This approach allows for ongoing communication, helps to clear up any further misunderstandings, and facilitates my professional development. It also demonstrates my openness to growth.

If you make a change based on someone's feedback, you also strengthen the relationship with that person. Take their feedback and consider the smallest changes you could make to move in a positive direction. Also consider massive actions you could take. Whatever you do, don't sit on actionable feedback and do nothing.

Harsh is only harsh if you "feel" it is harsh. All relative to your perspective. If you feel it is harsh - then you will act as it is harsh. If you feel it is helpful - you will then learn from it and move on.

Step 0; Have continuous frank dialogue everyday which includes appreciation for hard work, encouragement and validation, and lots of support for psychological safety, then criticism will not be a dramatic emotional experience.

1. Listening the feedback is important as you are showing respect to that person. 2. Keep calm and pause a while before giving any feedback. 3. Avoid any defensive act in your feedback. If the feedback is right acknowledge otherwise be assertive with right tone. 4. Tone is always important in the conversation, as it may take the conversation on right direction or either way which may close the door for future discussion.

my one big realization is: we are all the mixture of good and bad. it is perhaps your bad side they criticized. the one who criticized you also has bad side. it is open for criticism as well. take this as a fact.