How to Handle Criticism From A Superior

I know that no one likes to be criticized. Personally, I'm pretty sensitive and criticism of any sort - constructive or otherwise - tends to upset me. However, in business you have to be able to take it. I'm not talking about insults or rude behavior. I'm talking about negative feedback - criticism that is meant to prevent problems, help you do your job better, or ensure things are done correctly.

As an Executive Assistant, my boss has to be able to tell me when I've done something wrong and correct me on it. How else would I ever improve? I know this and yet, I still have a difficult time handling it. It's a necessary part of the job, but it still feels bad. If you're like me, here are a few tips that might help you out:

1. Recognize Constructive Criticism

Negative feedback is not the same as an insult. Sure, it feels just as bad. But most of the time in the professional world, if someone is giving you criticism it's not meant to be rude - it's meant to help you improve. Try to remember that the person giving you the feedback is not an enemy. Even if the criticism is especially brutal, it shouldn't be a personal thing. Of course, if you're dealing with personal attacks, that's a different story. If you're in that situation, stop reading this article and go read How to Quit Your Job.

2. Put on Your "Big Girl" Pants

Ok, it's fine to be sensitive. But we're all adults here. People shouldn't have to walk on egg shells to give you some feedback. If it makes you cry when someone tells you a project you worked on is not correct, you need to hike up your "Big Girl" pants and be strong. This is business. If you're not 100% perfect 100% of the time, it's just fine. But people have to be able to tell you what needs to change - otherwise, you'll continue doing things wrong and you'll be a menace to work with. It might be painful, but it's for your own good. Like broccoli.

3. Make Use of It

When you get criticism, don't just let it roll off your back. Take it to heart. Make changes and try to see why the criticism was given. More than likely, it was given as a way to help you. So, if suggestions are made, give them a try. Personally, I find that criticism is a lot easier to take when I realize that it's useful. And the only way you'll know that is by listening and being open to suggestions.

4. Let go of the Ego

This is my biggest problem. I have a hard time putting my pride aside. When someone offers criticism, even in a helpful way, my initial reaction is to get defensive. I have to work hard to remind myself that the criticism isn't an attack on my character. And I have to bring myself back down to earth and say, "Self - you're pretty great. But you're not perfect. And the good news is: no one expects you to be."

5. Consider the Source

I don't want to paint with a broad brush and say that all construction criticism should be accepted. Sometimes, people are going to offer feedback that they think is helpful but, in reality, simply isn't. A lot of times, you have to consider the source of the criticism. Is it your boss - whom you respect and want to please? Or is it a co-worker who is doesn't really know what you do all day but thinks she's got the answer to everything? I hope this doesn't sound negative, but we all have those kinds of people in our offices: the people who think they know it all and have an opinion on everything. Sure, they might have some helpful constructive criticism once in a while, but don't get too wrapped up in those kinds of things. Concentrate on the feedback that comes from people you respect, who know you, your job, your skills, and your work ethic and truly have your best interests in mind.