When to Abandon the “sandwich Method” and Instead Give Direct Criticism
No one wants to sound like a jerk when they express constructive criticism, but sometimes we dig in when we try too hard to spare our feelings. Get right to the point without glorifying it if the kindness in your speech confuses the message.
It never helps to be angry with someone by trying to get them to do something, but direct constructive criticism and harshness are not always the same. College author and professor David Burkus recommends that you flesh out your criticisms and suggestions for improvement on a regular basis. He also explains why it is often better than the sandwich method:
It takes criticism to produce outstanding creative work. We regularly use criticism and conflict to make our ideas better and our projects stronger. This is why the compliment sandwich is so ineffective. It works against us, making it harder to understand the criticism by inserting [ed] between two vague and unrelated positives. You may find yourself unsure whether you will be promoted or fired. In addition, if the criticism is harsh enough, all positive points will be fueled by insincere, which again negatively affects the purpose of providing feedback.
The sandwich method works well when you can still be direct and ensure the point is clear. But at certain times, such as when criticism lurks behind unrelated praise, it is less transparent and difficult to understand. When this happens, it’s best to go forward.
Stop Serving Your Compliment Sandwich | 99u
Photo Mykolo George .