“Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things.” ~ Winston Churchill
Even at its best, when presented with tact and grace, criticism can be hard to take. When phrased as a complaint, criticism can be even tougher to endure. There is no doubt we have fostered a culture of complaint in our economic, political, and social system. We have even trained people to complain as a way of getting windfalls in free services and goods. Complain loudly enough and you get your way, we seem to be saying.
You need a response to criticism, one that demonstrates your company’s no-nonsense ethic. Here is what I suggest. The next time you are criticized, say this:
“Thank you.” Read the rest of this entry »