Now, this is a situation there is no running away from. No matter how good you are, there will always be someone finding faults with your method of work. So, instead of fretting over the occasional reproach you can use it to your own advantage if you just remember the following points.

Value criticism

Before anything else, loose that age-old notion that criticism is a negative thing. Consider it as a gift or an opportunity to make improvements in your career. There are many who get discouraged or even provoked by criticism while you could be one of the few who churn out something positive out of criticism. Moreover, your willingness to accept criticism and work on improving the areas where you have been found wanting, will only highlight the signs of your maturity and professionalism.

Take em’ in the right spirit

When rebukes are being hurled at you, the right kind of attitude is the helmet that will help you dodge them. There is no place for ego in the office environment and it surely should not be allowed to show its ugly face when you’re dealing with criticism. Thus, when someone criticizes your work, lock your emotions and throw away the key. Then, take an objective look at the content of the criticism and if it seems reasonable, take ownership of the mistakes. For, taking responsibility of the errors is the first step towards correcting them.

If you think that the errors deserve an explanation, then go ahead and explain. But take care not to go overboard, for it doesn’t take too long for an explanation to sound like an excuse, or still worse, a denial. And of course, keep that that good ol’ smile fixed on your face (even if it’s a fake one).

Understand the reason

Once you’re on the receiving end of criticism, it is important to ascertain the root cause. If it seems to rise out of unsubstantiated arguments or simply personal insecurities of the person criticizing, then don’t fret about it and get on with your life. But if the criticism concerns your professional abilities, make an added effort to find out the root cause of your mistakes. For that, you may have to ask for specifics, take a second opinion, or even do your own research.

Correct the mistake

Once you have ascertained the cause for the criticism, waste no time in taking the corrective measures instead of dwelling on the mistakes. How you correct the mistakes throws light on your professionalism and maturity and thus you can use the criticism leveled against you to actually enhance your position in the office structure.

If you use these simple guidelines in receiving criticism, you will probably doing yourself a world of good and you will actually see that receiving is far more rewarding than giving. Pun totally not intended.