Taking small business criticism constructively

You can't please everyone.Criticism is a natural consequence of being a business owner.Whether your critic is an unsatisfied customer or a competitor looking to discredit you, taking harsh words in stride is definitely a challenge.The unfortunate truth is that the bigger your business is and the more successful you become, the more people will try to bring you down.In many respects you put yourself out there to be criticized.Receiving that first letter of dissatisfaction or nasty phone call can upset even the most professional of small business owners.Although the temptation to take criticism personally is definitely an easy thing to do (after all you have poured a lot of yourself into your business) seasoned business owners know that it is better to put personal feelings aside and try your best to take criticism constructively.

Know that you are not the only business owner to have ever received a nasty letter.It has happened to just about anyone who has made a name for themselves in the business world.If you are really struggling with the negativity that has found its way to you, lean on fellow entrepreneurs and business owners for empathy.They will likely give you the advice that not all criticism is created equally.Some people just like to make their opinions known; others lash out for no logical reason at all. A legitimate complaint can be twisted and turned into a huge issue that in fact may have a very simple solution.Other times, and these are the hardest, the customer is absolutely right.Something that you are not proud of may have happened and you must humble yourself and prevent your ego from getting in the way of progress.Recognizing that you are the one at fault or that you made a mistake is the hardest part of being criticized.Many people slip into a form of denial where they simply get mad at their accuser and criticize them right back.Nothing can ever be accomplished this way.When you are ready to face your problems head on you may find that your customer has done you a great service in pointing out a flaw.Now you have the opportunity to make a change for the better and ultimately improve your business to benefit future customers.

Many times the phrase "leave emotion at the door" is used to describe a professional work environment.However, for small business owners the line of differentiation between what is business and what is personal can be very fine.It is much easier to tell someone to simply turn the other cheek than to actually do it when you have been hurt by someone.Instead, it is better to acknowledge how you are feeling.Take some time to get your head back in the right place.Go to a trusted friend or family member for comfort.Don't bottle these feelings inside, deal with them.Be angry, be sad, vent and then know when it is time to move on.If you have a business partner or someone else that you can turn to for help in dealing with the business side of the matter, go ahead and hand off the issue to someone else.Better yet, let others take care of your mail and screen your messages.You need to know what the issues are, but you do not need to read in glorious detail the ranting and ravings of upset or just bitter people.Small issues can be dealt with by your staff.You do not need to personally handle every return.

When criticism comes it can be easy to discount all of the things that you are doing well.Resist the urge.One complaint does not discount all of the positive feedback and new business that you have rightfully earned.