Workplace Trauma Month 2025: Criticism at work

Criticism or Feedback in the workplace is a double-edged sword. While it can foster growth and improvement, it also has the potential to wound egos and dampen morale. Striking the right balance is key to harnessing its benefits while mitigating its negative effects. Here are our tips on how to effectively handle feedback at work, whether you're giving or receiving it.

Understanding Feedback

Feedback is an essential catalyst for development. When delivered constructively, it provides valuable insights and identifies areas for improvement. However, unchecked feedback can be detrimental, leading to demotivation and a decline in performance. It's crucial to strike a balance and ensure that feedback is delivered thoughtfully and with empathy.

Many managers struggle with giving feedback, often due to a lack of proper training. When they do give it then it’s important to understand that their intention is typically to help you grow rather than criticize for no reason.

Emotions are a crucial factor in both giving and receiving it. Effective communication involves more than just highlighting errors or suggesting improvements—it requires connecting on a human level and recognizing the emotional impact of words. Effective teamwork balances logic and emotion and understanding this can lead to more compassionate and effective feedback.

Research indicates that the delivery of feedback can greatly affect how it's received. Interestingly, some studies suggest that feedback is easier to accept when it seems to come from a neutral or positive source, like a mentor or respected colleague, rather than directly from a supervisor.

General Advice for Companies

Implementing a 360 reviews system can be instrumental in fostering a culture of constructive feedback. This approach involves every employee evaluating their peers, superiors, and subordinates, creating a holistic view of individual performance and areas for improvement. This system can help make the process more transparent and less hierarchical, promoting a culture of continuous improvement.

Tips for Those Giving Feedback

Transparency is key. Choose only ethical channels. Adopt a people-first mindset, acknowledging the potential impact of your words on others. Balance points of improvements with praise for achievements.

Empathy should drive your method of delivery of the messages. Consider how your words might affect the person you're speaking to and aim to build them up rather than break them down. Acknowledge their successes and express confidence in their ability to improve. Moreover, be open to receiving feedback yourself. Cultivating a culture of dialogue fosters trust and encourages continuous improvement among team members.

Tips for Those Receiving Feedback

Receiving feedback gracefully is an art. See it as an opportunity for growth. Remember that many managers may not know the best way to give feedback and don't intend to harm you. Keeping this in mind can help you approach feedback with a more open mindset. Saying "thank you" in response to feedback can defuse tension and demonstrate maturity. Additionally, actively seek feedback from others, signaling your commitment to personal and professional development.

In conclusion: Destructive criticism can cause a long-lasting workplace trauma. But constructive one, when delivered and received effectively, can be a powerful tool for growth and development in the workplace. By fostering a culture of open communication, empathy, and continuous improvement, organizations will harness the transformation and drive success and innovation. Above all, remember that imperfection is part of being human, and embracing it can lead to a more harmonious and productive workplace.