Whether you’re at the beginning of your job search or in the early stages of your career – you’re going to experience constructive criticism. And let’s face it – sometimes we need to hear the truth.
It’s important to be in the right mindset when you’re being critiqued. You’ll want to take this advice into consideration, and use it in future scenarios to improve your overall performance.
In reality, no one wants to hear where they’re lacking, but sometimes it’s necessary if you’re looking to advance your career.
Today we’re sharing our tips on how to take criticism and improve from it:
Don’t take it personally
Don’t take criticism too personally. Try to separate yourself from your professional duties and give yourself a little grace when it comes to making mistakes – it happens to everyone sometimes.
Criticism is often aimed towards your work, not who you are as a person. Try to always look at it from that point of view.
React professionally
Be appreciative of the criticism you received and remember to react in a professional manner. This feedback could help you in future workplace scenarios.
If the delivery was kind and constructive, make sure to acknowledge their honesty. Remember that giving criticism is often just as uncomfortable as receiving it.
Ask questions
Show you understand their comments by asking questions. Ask them if they can walk you through an example of your mistake and how you can improve in the future.
Use it as a positive
Carefully consider this feedback, and look at it from a positive point of view. Use this experience to reignite your dedication to your job and employer. Prove your expertise through your positivity, and show them that you can handle any criticism that comes your way.
Share your experience
Find a mentor or colleague and tell them about your criticism experience. Have an open conversation about it, and encourage them to share their perspective. By gaining an outside opinion from someone you trust, you can understand how to handle the situation going forward, and know if you’re being too hard on yourself.
Handling criticism is never easy, but it is possible to make the best of it. Use any feedback you receive as an opportunity to grow as a professional.
If you’re in the midst of your job search and are looking to advance your career – ETS is here to help! Our trusted recruiters will find you the right fit, and guide you through any criticism you may receive along the way. Explore 300+ available careers at your fingertips – live chat with us now for more details.
