Life as an IT consultant can be tough considering the expectations that you have to fulfill. Not only that, the slightest of errors can lead to the harshest of criticism from the client. So it is very important to learn to take this criticism in the right manner. Dealing with such remarks correctly will teach you a lot and will make you a better professional. Here are a few things you should keep in mind when your work is being criticized.
• Changing your attitude towards criticism is very important. A lot of people take it in a very negative manner. They feel as though their ideas are being attacked. However, criticism should always be taken in a positive way. It can tell you about mistakes that you have made and what you can do to eradicate these mistakes. Also, clients are always impressed if they feel that you are willing to learn from your mistakes.
• To get the most out of the criticism you receive, you have to fully understand what the client is saying. You should not hesitate to ask the client about a particular point which you do not understand. Engaging in such a conversation will help you identify specific parts of your plan which need improvement.
• One of the worst mistakes made by consultants is to take the criticism personally. Remember that the points being made are not about you, but about the idea you have presented and how it can be improved. Whenever faced with criticism, you should act in a calm and professional manner , and try to take the critique as a way to improve your idea.
• You should understand that your client has a lot more experience and knows what he is talking about. You can use his/her comments to learn a lot more about how different businesses operate.
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