After seeing the discussion around my last blog about what one has to consider when providing constructive criticism, I thought I would pose a question to everybody: Would you give constructive criticism to a manager with bad temper and who you know gets easily feels offended by hearing criticism from subordinates? To answer this question let’s try to imagine a situation: You are in a product promotion plan meeting held by the manager. The manager has presented a plan made by himself that he is very satisfied and proud with. However, you think the budget for this plan is too little and may create problems for the implementation. Your opinion is that the budget should be increased or the plan should be modified. Even though you are very confident with your opinion and can provide persuasive proof to this, you hesitate when the manager asks if anyone has an opinion because you know the manager’s character. Some people will think the right move is to voice your opinion because the opinion is related to work and not a personal attack. The manager will accept the opinion without argument especially if it benefits the plan and will avoid potential problems. Other people will think that you should not make your opinion known because from knowing your manager’s character you know it will just lead to a big argument which may strain both of your working relationship. So is the better move is avoidance. What do you think?
Whatever the manager attitude and personality, it shouldn't conflict the work environment. If he's the manager doesn't mean he has the right to have the one and final decision. You should have your say in the matter to benefit the work and to succeed as a team.
ReplyDeleteYes, I've been in a situation like this before and I've spoken up. I'd do it again, as long as I have persuasive arguments.
ReplyDeleteSalma, in real work place, i think manager is the one has the one and final decision in some situation.
ReplyDeleteLike Cheryl said, if I were one of the team members, I would say it very persuasively, but not by hurting any feelings of my manager. But sometimes, even if I am very confident and provide evidence, I could also make a mistake. So in this scenario, I would think 10 times before I talk.
ReplyDeleteHi Daejoong, i like the "think 10 times before i talk"
ReplyDeleteLike Daejoong said, you should go over it many many times before confronting your manager. You don't want to be too agressive, but at the same time you want to get your point across to your manager. If you go overboard with the criticism, you might be thrown out the door.
ReplyDeleteLet’s think vice versa. I am the manager and present a plan made by myself which I am very proud of. One of my team members point out problems carelessly and I understand what the problems are. Even if I did something wrong, my feeling would be hurt.
ReplyDeleteA situation like this seems tough however it is important to think through what to say before we speak. I personally believe that it is right to speak up. However considering that the manager does have a bad temper, I would have to adjust my tone, make sure my point is clear, bring up the ideas as "just a thought" in the most respectful way and make sure I have been improving on any constructive criticism I may have received from fellow co-workers and/or manager(s).
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