On Constructive Criticism

One of the most important traits of a good manager is the ability to criticize constructively. Criticism keeps us all on edge and helps us to perform better. 

I had a manager who never allowed me to be content with what I did. Even when I thought I did a great job he would always come up with a few opinions (criticism is nothing but an opinion) of how if could have been better. As usual, I did not like it most of the times. But when I reflected on the reasons behind his criticism I realized that he criticizes because he does not want me to be content. Complacency sets in when one is content. Being constantly criticized (of course, constructively) helps us perform better. 

"In Project Management, Criticism is Inevitable" is what Stephen says on his blog Project Steps. He says, 

"Keep an open mind when being criticized. Don't let the criticism control you or change what you think about yourself. Ask yourself, can I learn anything from the criticism? Can I change anything? Should I change? 

I don't take criticism well, and I tend to discount those people around me that criticize others too much. I need to take my own advice and learn to be more accepting of criticism, especially when it is constructive"

Skip suggests PINE model for providing constructive criticism.  

In project management constructive criticism is a very important technique to keep the team on edge and hence come out with their best. The key to work with the team member suggesting better ways of doing the same thing to ensure that criticism results in better outcomes.