How to Transform Criticism into Constructive Action with One Question

Ed note: Posts published on From the Workplace are written by outside contributors and do not reflect the view or opinion of SHRM.

When criticism and complaints are allowed to fester without solutions, they can erode team morale, stifle productivity, and create an atmosphere of negativity. It’s easy for someone to point out a flaw or issue, but simply identifying problems without offering solutions is not only unhelpful—it’s damaging. In fact, a recent SHRM article reported more negativity in the workplace.

Effective leaders and winning teammates understand that the real value lies in moving beyond complaints and into action. In any team or organizational setting, it’s inevitable that problems will arise.

But often, people fall into the habit of merely identifying an issue without taking the next crucial step: offering a solution. That affects team retention and morale—a 2022 study in MIT Sloan Management Review confirms that a toxic work culture is the top driver of employee attrition.

This is where the power of a simple, yet profound, question comes into play. When faced with criticism or a complaint, a leader can turn it into a productive conversation by asking one question: “So, what would you suggest that we do to make things better?” This question moves the focus from the problem itself to potential solutions, encouraging ownership and responsibility. There are four specific benefits to this approach:

1. Promotes a Solutions-Oriented Mindset

The first and most obvious benefit of asking, “What would you suggest we do to make things better?” is that it encourages a solutions-oriented mindset. Instead of dwelling on what’s wrong, the question shifts the focus to what can be done to make things right.

A solutions-oriented mindset fosters a culture where problems are seen as opportunities for improvement rather than obstacles. This is especially important in high-pressure environments where time spent on complaints without solutions is time wasted. By consistently asking for suggestions, leaders encourage their teams to think critically about how to address issues, which leads to innovation.

Why it matters: When team members are trained to think in terms of solutions rather than problems, they become more proactive and engaged. This proactive approach not only improves the overall efficiency of the team but also boosts morale.

2. Encourages Ownership and Accountability

One of the most significant challenges in leadership is fostering a sense of ownership and accountability among team members. When someone points out a problem without offering a solution, they are distancing themselves from the issue. However, by asking them how to fix it, you’re encouraging them to be part of the solution.

This shift from criticism to contribution is essential in building a team that holds itself accountable. This process not only makes them more invested in the outcome but also builds a sense of responsibility for the team’s overall success.

Why it matters: Ownership and accountability are the cornerstones of a high-performing team. When individuals feel responsible for the team’s success, they are more likely to go the extra mile to ensure that goals are met, and are more mindful of potential problems and take steps to prevent them.

3. Enhances Team Collaboration

Asking for suggestions in response to criticism also fosters a more collaborative environment. When team members are encouraged to offer solutions, they are more likely to engage in discussions that lead to collective problem-solving. This not only enhances teamwork but also brings diverse perspectives to the table.

Improving team collaboration is a key to your success as a leader. By promoting collaboration through solution-focused discussions, leaders can tap into the collective intelligence of their teams, leading to better outcomes.

Why it matters: Collaboration drives creativity and innovation. When team members work together to solve problems, they are more likely to develop creative solutions that they may not have thought of individually, leading to increased trust and a more cohesive work environment.

4. Develops Leadership Skills

Finally, asking for solutions in response to criticism helps to develop initiative and leadership within the team. When individuals are encouraged to think critically about how to address issues, they are honing the problem-solving and decision-making skills that are essential for effective leadership.

Development is an ongoing process, and one of the best ways to cultivate leadership skills is by giving team members opportunities to step up and take charge.

Why it matters: Building leadership skills within your team is crucial for long-term success. As your team members grow in their abilities, they become more capable of handling challenges independently, and you develop a pipeline of talent ready to step into more significant roles as your organization grows.

The next time you’re faced with a team member who is pointing out a problem without offering a solution, remember the power of this simple question: “So, what would you suggest that I (or we) do to make things better?” By consistently asking for solutions, you’ll encourage your team to take ownership of their work, collaborate effectively, and develop leadership skills.

Sean Glaze is a corporate trainer, motivational speaker, and business coach with Great Results Team Building and Effective Leaders and the author of four books on leadership and team dynamics.