How to Deal With Criticism From A Manager Other Than Yours

You likely answer to a number of people at work besides your immediate supervisor, such as team or project leaders. This broadens the spectrum of who is judging you and offering criticism. A little analysis will help you deal with this new reality.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Take a beat before responding to understand whether the person is, indeed, the right one to raise the issue. Most of the time, this will stop you from saying unproductive things like, "Well, just who the heck do you think you are?"

2. Respond to the comments and not the tone. Not everyone is as wise as you and may not act appropriately in such situations. Besides, you never know who might be on their way up the hierarchy.

3. Keep your real boss in the loop. Let her know so-and-so was unhappy with you and give a fair account of the conversation or share the complaining email. It's possible the person with the gripe went over your head anyway.

4. Go to your supervisor in the end, if you feel the "other" manager acted inappropriately. Dealing with that issue on your own might make your boss look like they aren't on top of things.

Tips & Warnings

• Also share with your supervisor any praise you get from others.
• The ability to work in a cooperative organization is a key to success.