Johnny C. Taylor Jr. answers your questions about human resources as part of a series for USA TODAY. Taylor is president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, the world’s largest human resource professional association, and author of “Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.”
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Question: My first reaction to criticism is anything but positive. When I receive feedback from my boss or colleagues, I either perceive it as a personal attack or I am afraid of being fired. How can I better respond to criticism in the workplace? – Akeem
Answer: It’s completely understandable to feel defensive or fearful when receiving criticism. Many of us equate our work with our self-esteem and perceive feedback as a personal attack. However, constructive criticism is a valuable tool for growth and improvement. Let’s explore how you can change your perspective and turn feedback into a positive force for your career.
Above all, remember that criticism is not a personal accusation, but an opportunity to improve your skills and performance. It’s a sign that people care about your work and want to see you succeed. Instead of focusing on the negative impact, try to see feedback as a constructive challenge.
Develop a process for receiving feedback. Take a moment to calm down and process the information without reacting impulsively. Focus on understanding the specific points raised rather than generalizing as personal attacks. Ask clarifying questions when necessary to fully understand the feedback.
Once you understand the criticism, focus on finding solutions. Identify areas where you can improve and develop a plan to fix them. This proactive approach turns criticism from a threat into an opportunity for growth.
It’s important to separate your work from your self-worth. Your value as an employee goes beyond your current performance. View challenges as opportunities to learn and develop new skills. Remember, everyone makes mistakes. How you respond to them will determine your professional growth.
It’s crucial to develop a growth mindset. View challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. Understand that feedback is a natural part of professional development. Adopting this perspective will make you more resilient and open to constructive criticism. Remember that your response to feedback is a choice. By developing a positive mindset and a structured approach, you can transform criticism from a dreaded experience into a valuable asset to your career.
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I recently moved to a new city. I had a successful career in advertising and a professional network in my previous city, but now I need help making a career in the advertising industry in my new location. How can I build a local career network from scratch? – Silvan
Moving can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to rebuilding your professional network. Leaving behind a successful career and a solid support system can be overwhelming. But fear not—it’s entirely possible to reestablish yourself in your new city and achieve professional success. Let’s explore some strategies to help you make this transition.
Even though your physical location has changed, your professional network hasn’t disappeared. Reach out to former colleagues, clients and mentors. They may know of opportunities in your new city or be willing to introduce you. Social media platforms can be powerful tools for reconnecting. Update your profile to reflect your new location and interact with your existing network to keep your career top of mind.
It’s important to research the advertising landscape of your new city. Identify key players, major agencies and emerging companies. Understand local market trends, challenges and opportunities. With this knowledge, you can effectively tailor your resume and cover letters. Consider attending industry events, conferences and workshops to gain insight into the local advertising ecosystem.
Networking is often misunderstood as a purely transactional process. Instead, focus on building real relationships. Attend industry events to network, not just to collect business cards. Show genuine interest in other people’s work, share your experiences, and offer help when possible. Remember: networking is a two-way street.
Online platforms offer a great opportunity to connect with professionals in your field. Join industry-specific groups on LinkedIn, participate in online forums, and attend virtual conferences. These platforms allow you to connect with people from all over the world, including your new city. Share your expertise, join discussions, and look for opportunities to collaborate.
Building a new network takes time and effort. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see results right away. Celebrate small wins, learn from setbacks and persevere. Remember, every interaction is an opportunity to build a connection.
Continuously improve your skills and knowledge to stay competitive. Attend industry workshops and webinars. Consider pursuing additional certifications or degrees. Investing in yourself demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and is an asset to potential employers.
Remember that moving can be a catalyst for personal and professional growth. Embrace the challenges, focus on building authentic connections, and stay positive. With determination and strategic planning, you can successfully build your career in your new city.
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