Description
Book SynopsisNobody likes criticism. Handled poorly, it too often stings and breeds resentment - and most of us try to avoid it at all costs.
But criticism - crafted carefully and communicated skillfully - promotes trust and respect, motivates individuals, and serves as a catalyst for change. It has the ability to turbocharge workplaces and careers. If that sounds farfetched, itâs because few understand how to properly give and receive the kind of critical feedback that brings positive results. The Truth Doesnât Have to Hurt rejuvenates this powerful but neglected art form. Executives, managers, team leaders - anyone who needs to temper praise with a dose of reality - will learn to:
- Deliver the truth and have it taken as helpful
- Create an atmosphere of acceptance
- Avoid mistakes that sabotage an exchange
- Control how they receive criticism so they benefit - even if itâs badly presented
Ignoring problems or always saying nice things will only maintain the status quo.
Table of Contents
CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS VII
INTRODUCTION 1
PART ONE Understanding the Power and Use of Criticism
CHAPTER 1: Criticism Doesn’t Have to Hurt 13
CHAPTER 2: Criticism Manners: Common Mistakes, and Some Dos and Don’ts 29
CHAPTER 3: Creating an Atmosphere of Acceptance: Establish Clear Relationship Expectations 63
PART TWO Making the Criticism Exchange Work for You
CHAPTER 4: Delivering Criticism with Confidence in Sensitive Times 93
CHAPTER 5: Receiving Criticism: You Have More Control Than You Think 127
CHAPTER 6: Avoiding the Tendency to Personalize Criticism 157
PART THREE Using Criticism for Positive Change
CHAPTER 7: Managing Work and Volunteer Teams: The Crucial Role Criticism Plays 185
CHAPTER 8: Handling Difficult Situations 205
NOTES 233
INDEX 237
