1. Determine if it really matters.
2. Criticize in private.
· Frequently a person will admit his error and take helpful correction without hurt feelings.
· But not if it is done in front of an audience.
3. Apologize for him.
· Make an excuse for him so he can save face.
· Let him know that there was a good reason for his doing it the wrong way.
· For example:
“I’ve seen Eagle Scouts make the same mistake”
“I’ve made the same mistake myself”
“It’s easy to make such a mistake”
4. Praise first before criticizing.
· For example,
“Good campers like you often make such mistakes”
“You are good about other things, what happened here?”
5. Focus on the act – no the person.
· Not what idiot did this, but what thing was done wrong.
· It is a great temptation to point out a person’s faults – don’t succumb.
6. Be specific about the error.
· Never be vague…point out exactly what is wrong.
7. Point out what should be done to correct the situation.
· Be specific about what the person can do to better his performance.
8. Follow-up
· Stop by later to reassure him – by your presence – that you are his friend.
· Let him know that the incident is closed – by your silence about the matter.
· Let him have an opportunity to ask questions and show that he is doing it right.
· If he is doing the job right, be sure to compliment him.
Don’t’ correct – help!