Providing constructive criticism. Providing constructive criticism is a skill that requires you to focus on four key areas. First, focus on one issue at a time. Avoid addressing multiple issues. This will only cause confusion and frustration. Identify the issue and set plan on how you're going to address this.

Second, focus on being timely. Once you identify an issue, make sure you do not wait too long to deliver the critique. The more time passes, the less effective it will be. Your employee may even forget what they did. Third, and most importantly, focus on observable actions or behaviors. Avoid generalities.

For example, do not say you have an issue with time management. The statement is lacking in observable action or behavior. Instead, you might want to say I noticed you spend extra time talking to other employees on your way to meetings making you late to most of them. The observable behavior is talking to other employees. With this behavior identified you are now able to focus on the next point or focus on a plan to change the behavior depends On the extent of change that must happen your plan may be a simple adjustment. However, if it is complex then use your SMART goal writing technique to help your employee set successful goals.

Now, let us learn how to encourage growth and development.