Sunday, August 2, 2009

Criticism: How To Deal

I like this video that interviews artists on how they view criticism.

Design For Mankind - Dialogue Episode 6 from Design For Mankind on Vimeo.

I could probably take some notes on this as my own reactions to criticism range from mature and understanding to.. ummm.... well, not so mature. Maybe it involves yelling, or the occasional slammed door.
But really, criticism is tough no matter how constructive it is and the way I like to deal with it is, the minute I hear it I put it in the back of my mind without reacting at all. After a few days, it's either a: a good idea and something I could consider changing or b: funny because it's ridiculous and spiteful. It's amazing how fast petty criticism gets funny and constructive seems wise and helpful.
When it comes to online criticism, this video is right on. Filters are off because there are no face to face repercussions from putting your opinion out there. You are able to view online and in front of you what would normally take place in the privacy of behind your back and brands seem to be having a particularly hard time coming to terms with it. In fact, it's generally one of the first questions a brand will ask me. For companies worried about online negativity I generally have this rule of thumb: if it's being said once you can forget about it and if it's a widespread complaint about you then it's important to take a look at the product or service that's being criticized.

2 Comments:

Blogger Grace Boyle said...

Criticism is hard to deal with. We're only human and even if we have 'tough skin' it can still sting. I also think it depends on the kind of criticism. If the delivery is kind, but firm and constructive I welcome it. If it's yelling, rude and intense it's hard to stomach. From a brand perspective, it doesn't matter with the delivery as much, especially if it's widepsread like you said. It should definitely be addressed!

Great post and thanks for sharing the video :)

August 3, 2009 at 10:24 AM  
Blogger Carmen said...

i hate critisism because I take it personally. I don't like that I do- but I do.

August 6, 2009 at 5:51 AM  

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