Warren Buffett has a maxim on praise in the workplace that I’ve tried to practice this year: Praise by name, criticise by category.
Public. Specific. Individual. That kind of praise is powerful.
Public. Specific. Individual. That kind of criticism is destructive.
Mistakes and errors are unavoidable. But when they happen, we always have a choice as to how we communicate our disappointment.
We have control over whether we build up, or tear down. Whether we blow up, or listen. Whether we protect someone’s self-esteem, or destroy their confidence.
By discussing mistakes at the level of team, product, or project, rather than at the level of the individual, it affords a safe space to reflect on what can be done better next time.
It invokes reflection and introspection, rather than a defensive response.
It’s a long term investment, rather than a short term bet.