How to Handle Design Criticism like a Pro

How to Handle Design Criticism like a Pro? Embrace the criticism and handle it with cool. Criticism is inevitable and unpreventable. So it is better to accept and compromise on how to deal with it or use it as an inspiration to improve.

Every person has their own ways of dealing with criticism. Some take it negatively while others grasp it positively or others may not do anything at all. However, for most artists or designers, criticism is a big factor in order to enhance their creativity and imagination. Since their work is open to the public and criticism won’t be avoided. So how do you prepare for criticism?

Here are some ways on how to handle design criticism like a pro:

Accept it. Criticism isn’t always pleasant but it is required for you to see things that you might not notice and may even use it to your advantage. If you are into designing which allows everyone to see your creation, you won’t be able to escape criticism in public. Don’t be afraid to hear it and be disappointed. Being able to take it in and think differently about criticism is always a part of every job, whatever they may be. These comments might come from your supervisors, colleagues or peers. Be less dramatic on handling remarks, to be more productive and effective.

Reaction. How to react and what to do? Once you receive criticism, do not get angry, irritated nor be disappointed. React and respond to it appropriately. Look into the bigger picture and take this as a chance to improve your work or yourself maybe. Keep in mind that people who complain about your work are those who want you to get better. You may not want or like how they will deliver the criticism but it is a gift in disguise and one should acknowledge it.

Source. Consider who gave the criticism or the source of the criticism. If it comes from a well-known respected person, then it’s a pleasure to receive it from them. This type of persons who gave the critique are professionals and they won’t be giving a useless comment about your work. These comments might enlighten you or make you open-minded on the things you didn’t see or notice before.

Get a friend or peers opinion. When receiving criticism, it is much better to hear it from someone close to you. These people are the ones who are honest and won't sugar-coat on what they will say since they know and care for you. They can give you unwanted comments but they mostly noticed things or behaviors that you might have missed and you get the possibility to correct them. That is why it is more fitting and useful to hear honest criticism from close friends or family. But be wise on following others criticism. Some people give criticism but don’t have any idea about what they are saying as well. So make sure you get those comments from the right people. And don’t rush on the decision you will make because of those remarks.

Explain. As mentioned above, some criticism will come from people who are not experts or have no idea about your project or work. These people are sometimes the most eager persons who like to give criticism. But no offense, they maybe are just concern about your work and want you to improve. So it is best to explain to them and let them understand your point. This way, you will be able to understand better on your work as well, since you think deeper about it and talked it out with a person who has no idea or clue about the piece.

Challenge yourself. You may want to ignore the criticism but it’s not a very good thing to do. Don’t be afraid to receive it and engage yourself with the critic. Pleasantly respond to the remark. Don’t allow fear of criticism to stop you from doing your work and negatively affect you. Challenge yourself in doing better and strengthen more your capabilities. Plan ahead from those remarks you’ve received. So that, they will see your improvement in your future designs or work.

Motivation. When accepting criticisms use it as a motivation and don’t think of it as hostile or is against you because it isn’t always the case. There are many reasons why a person won’t agree with or like your work, especially if it’s in public. Remember, that every person has their differences when it comes to what they like or doesn’t.

There’s a big room for improvement when it comes to digital designs. However, whatever you do people will always have criticism and have something to say. Whether it’s good or bad, you must accept and embrace it. Use it as a bullet for your success and be open to possibilities. If you’re looking for amazing designs or design inspirations, Timebound Media is your friend. They hug critics and welcome them for improvement.