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The Power of Positive Criticism

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The Power of Positive Criticism

AMACOM,

15 min read
10 take-aways
Text available

What's inside?

Like military intelligence, positive criticism is one valuable oxymoron.

Editorial Rating

6

Qualities

  • Concrete Examples
  • Engaging

Recommendation

Hendrie Davis Weisinger is simple, clear and very focused as he applies emotional intelligence techniques to the area of criticism and reframes criticism as a valuable, vital tool, and not just a necessary evil. The tips in this self-improvement book push the reader toward greater self-awareness, a major element of emotional intelligence. The suggestions are elemental: Most of them are easy to implement, and even the hardest ones to enact require only a modest time commitment. The book’s message is consistent to the point of repetition, though its simple language gives it real power. getAbstract recommends this book to anyone who gives or receives criticism, which is to say, everyone. In particular, if you are a manager, an executive and or supervisor who deals with difficult personalities, here’s how to tell them what you need them to know.

Summary

Getting the Best from Yourself and Others

Criticism is a complex, essential and powerful process. It is important because situations affect our welfare and must be evaluated. It is essential because so many things depend on it, including leadership and management development. It is powerful because it can help an organization thrive or flounder and make or break careers. Use criticism to assess the merits and demerits of a situation and make appropriate judgments. When you do, you will get the best from yourself, from others and from your organization.

The Power of Positive Criticism

Use these 20 tips to exercise the power of criticism wisely and effectively.

  1. Befriend criticism - You are bound to encounter criticism, so embrace it. Think of it positively. Too many people avoid criticism as negative; they even substitute the word "feedback," which isn’t the same thing at all. Try to hear criticism for what it is and learn to appreciate it. Everyone needs criticism to become successful. Accept that and you will value it.
  2. Take responsibility for how you communicate and criticize strategically - See yourself as a force. Your...

About the Author

Hendrie Weisinger, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist and leading authority on emotional intelligence and anger management. He originated "Criticism Training" and led hundreds of seminars about criticism for Fortune 500 companies, government agencies and professional associations. He teaches in executive education and M.B.A. programs across the United States.

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