‘Don’t mind criticism. If it is untrue, disregard it; if unfair, keep from irritation; if it is ignorant, smile; if it is justified, it is not criticism, learn from it”— Source unknown.
Performance reviews are a source of anxiety for a large number of professionals. According to psychologists, we are wired to fear criticism tracing it back to our younger years when reproached by parents and teachers. From personal experience, fear of judgement and failure are some of the factors that cripple our capacity to process negative feedback. In order to counter the magnitude of critique on our psyche, Harvard Business Review cites that the ideal praise to criticism ratio as five positive comments for every bad one. This is not always possible during a feedback session so here are five ways to be empowered at your next review:
1. In the African context, fear of authority and reverence for hierarchy can cause feedback paralysis. The objective of work place reviews is for self-improvement and to enhance organizational performance. Whether it’s your Board, CEO or line manager, it is important to learn to respectfully challenge authority. Find a way to reframe your context by using facts so that your perspective can be appreciated. Management should also create a safe co-feedback environment where questions and clarity on expectations can be raised.
2. The most challenging aspect of receiving feedback is to delay your response. You need to create space and avoid the temptation to engage in a sparring session with your would-be opponent. The best response is to listen and ask questions. If the intensity of the session overwhelms you, acknowledge the person’s perspective with thanks and request time to think about the comments. This is a particularly helpful approach for handling heated reviews.
3. The corporate space can be a minefield of people with hidden agendas. Don’t trip over unconstructive feedback and examine the motives of the messenger. Conversely, be open and honest about your reaction to feedback. Has your ego taken a hit? Explore the truth about your performance and skill set because there is always room for improvement. Understand where the undesirable feedback is coming from because it could potentially be the launch pad for your next achievement.
4. If you’re anything like me, as you process feedback, the mental gymnastics can lead you to a self-deprecating black hole. You have to pivot from focusing on the bad and direct your thoughts to internalize the benefits. Remember that reviews are meant to enhance our performance not diminish our view of ourselves and our capabilities.
5. Just like a bad break-up, you have to find a way to move on from constructive criticism. David Hoffeld says you have to ‘reflect and flush.’ Don’t give up — accept responsibility and use the learning to help you produce better results.
In a nutshell, don’t linger — you have to filter, externalize and balance feedback. While it might be difficult to embrace criticism, use it as a vehicle for growth and inspiration to succeed.
