My challenge to you this week:
Rather than telling someone no, that their idea is bad, or some other negative response, make a conscious effort to turn it into a positive.
Do you have to tell someone no? Okay, but also give the person asking the question something helpful—could be a recommendation on someone else they should talk to or another avenue to try.
Think an idea isn’t the greatest? Tell them what you think could be done to make it better.
On the other side of the conversation? You’re the one doing the asking? Don’t settle. Ask for more information, more feedback, or what you could do differently.
Try it. Then let others know how it goes by leaving a comment here.
Wow, Brian, I’m terribly impressed by this! It’s amazing what a difference positive, constructive feedback can make, especially with younger creatives – they need helpful discipline. Being negative or an ass about it just doesn’t help anyone.
It’s not just about younger creatives. People in general need to know they’re appreciated and taken seriously before they’ll accept criticism – that holds true no matter what the situation.