Speaking without Hurting: Assertiveness and Psychological Safety in Receiving Criticism

Receiving criticism for improvement can be difficult, especially when that feedback comes from subordinates. One way to make receiving this information easier is create a team environment facilitates addressing these sensitive issues without harming personal relationships. This article analyses two factors contribute channelling type of criticism: assertiveness and psychological safety. To explore concepts, we carried out qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with managers. The practices facilitated subordinates included speaking respectfully, tolerance errors, focusing the problem rather than person. In general, was appreciated served strengthen bond other member.