Correct criticism implies the ability to find the right words that will not offend the person and will not affect his self-esteem. In addition, criticism must be timely, you must be able to choose the right moment for it to be received properly.
Restrain your emotions
Correct criticism does not allow for emotionality, especially when it comes to personal matters. You must be as objective as possible, otherwise your words will be perceived as attacks, and the person you are criticizing will quickly become defensive. For example, if you do not like certain actions of a person, criticize him for them. Don't talk to him about his behavior in general.
Choose the right time and place
Whatever good intentions you may be guided by, remember that criticism should not be carried out in a public manner. Never criticize a person in public. Choose a suitable place and time to do this. If you do decide to talk to a person, make sure you have enough time to do so. Criticism should not be limited to your personal time, show the person that you are constructive and ready to communicate with him.
Avoid personal criticism
Before you criticize a person, consider whether she will be perceived as you expect. For example, your good intentions about a person's appearance (being overweight, clothes, hair, etc.) may offend him. Your words that she should be changed (lose weight, cut a hair, etc.) may be perceived negatively and even seem offensive. Also try not to criticize a person's personal qualities. This can be done only if he directly asks you about what you think about his appearance, his words, his behavior, etc.
Be specific but talk too much
If you decide to criticize a person for any reason, say what you mean. Your words should relate to specific things, do not speak vaguely, in general terms. For example, if you are communicating with your employees about the quality of their work, tell them what you dislike and what changes you expect. It is not necessary to say that a person can work better, that he needs to try, etc. You will not be understood, your criticism will be unconstructive. At the same time, try not to overload the person, especially if you have big complaints about him. Try to split the conversation into several meetings, give him time to deal with a small part of your comments.
End on a positive note
Any criticism is always perceived rather sharply. Therefore, consider that the conversation with the person is not limited to only his criticism. Try to move the conversation to a neutral topic as soon as you finish with the criticism, so as not to focus too much on it, otherwise in the future the conversation with you will be extremely unpleasant for the person, your criticism will cease to be perceived.
