A Few Tips on Criticism

I wrote an article for Lifehack about how to criticise others without causing offence.

Generally, as a blogger it is not usually necessary to criticise others. However, if for example, we have a multi contributor blog there may be times when we need to correct other contributors. The important thing to remember when criticising others is that it can easily create a very defensive attitude; people feel hurt from the criticism and so seek to respond in a defensive way. However, if we wish to create the optimal response it is important to criticise others with tact.

I think this advice also applies to leaving comments on blogs. Some commentors seem to get a certain pleasure from leaving inflammatory comments. However, this will not endear you to the blogging comment. If you feel inspired to leave constructive criticism, and it is done with the right attitude I think many bloggers will appreciate the feedback.

There are good ways to criticise, but, if we are subject to aggressive criticism then it is important that we react in the right way. We should try to avoid being defensive. If we react with nobility and avoid responding with a similar negative attitude we can create a good impression to other readers. If we respond in the right way we may even encourage the commentator into moderating his approach.

For some negative comments, it may be appropriate to just remain silent and not respond. If the criticism is based on falsehood; there is no need to respond at all. If we do respond there is a danger of giving it an undeserved importance. Instead we can just concentrate on doing good things, if necessary correcting misinformation, without directly responding to the criticism.

Thus, don’t be dismayed at a negative comment, just see it as an opportunity to turn a negative comment into a positive experience.

I am quite happy when people point out errors in my writing, because it motivates me to aim for higher standards.