Bottom Line, Inc.
Individual Contributor - Participant’s Workbook
RECEIVING CRITICISM
OBSERVER SHEET
To help you give constructive feedback to your colleagues, refer to the following questions when it is your turn to
observe the giving and receiving of criticism:
Did the “critic” give constructive criticism, destructive criticism, or an accusation/put-down?
What was it about the choice of words, tone of voice, etc., that made it constructive/destructive/a
put-down?
Describe the “critic’s” facial expression and body language while the criticism was being made. Did he
or she:
Maintain eye contact?
Smile appropriately / inappropriately?
Scowl?
Fidget?
Other?
How was the criticism received? Did the recipient:
Stay calm?
Appear annoyed?
Seem relaxed?
Appear hurt?
Seem intimidated?
Other?
How was the recipient respond? Did he or she:
Retaliate?
Counter-criticize?
Get defensive?
Apologize?
Over apologize?
Other?
Was the response appropriate? If not, how could it have been improved?
Was the facial expression and body language compatible with the choice of words, tone of voice, etc.?
Did he or she:
Maintain good eye contact?
Blush / look uncomfortable?
Fidget?
Put up “barriers” (crossed legs or arms)?
Other?
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