It’s that time again! Season 10 of Project Runway is underway and people across the world are watching to see who the next winning designer will be. Back with the new episodes are new critiques from judges Heidi Klum, Michael Kors, and Nina Garcia.
Also returning is “make it work” mentor, Tim Gunn who has got to be pretty close to the top of my list of all time fabulous people ever to grace the planet. Given the right circumstances a hug from Tim Gunn could quite possibly achieve world peace. If you strive to be poised, professional and at least perceived as put together then Tim Gunn is the man to model your behavior by.
Despite the daily drama a reality TV competition drums up, Tim Gunn remains composed and couth. When confronted with clashing personalities or clothing Tim Gunn keeps his cool and offers suggestions to help others struggling through the situation.
It would be easy for him to shred the designers’ egos with his opinions of their work but instead Tim Gunn offers constructive criticism in the hopes that an honest evaluation offered in an encouraging tone will inspire the designers to see another perspective and circumvent potential problems.
Constructive criticism doesn’t come easy to everyone and if you have a sensitive co worker it’s easy to offend instead of assist. If approached incorrectly the person you’re trying to help might focus on the negative you say and not the positive points you’re trying to make.
I had a professor in film school that had hugs like Tim Gunn, the kind that could instantly send the rain away. He had a formula for constructive criticism we had to use when offering feedback on other students assignments that works well for offering honest advice.
- Say something you liked about their project
- Note areas with room for improvement
- Ask questions about their intention and motivation
- Offer suggestions to enhance their vision
- Finish by highlighting other positives you perceive
The objective of constructive criticism isn’t to offer definitive answers. Its purpose is to inspire others to work out potential problems for themselves in ways they might not have considered on their own.
Even without Tim Gunn or super powered hugs you can help your team make it work in some of the most stressful situations. Offering objective advice that motivates others to excel is an exceptional skill that employers find favorable. Having a department that can communicate critiques in a caring and creative way promotes productivity and office morale. In an interview be sure to explain situations where your advice advanced assignments.
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