Here's how you can cultivate assertiveness skills to navigate criticism or feedback as an engineer.

As an engineer, one can cultivate assertiveness by practicing clear communication, maintaining a positive mindset, and focusing on facts. Seek feedback proactively, respond calmly to criticism, and use it constructively. Develop confidence through continuous learning and by setting and respecting personal boundaries.

Assertiveness is essential while dealing with criticism in our field. When given ambiguous feedback, don't be afraid to ask for clarification. This proactive approach indicates your dedication to understanding and tackling the issue at hand. By seeking clarification, you demonstrate professional maturity and a genuine desire to grow. Remember that positive communication is vital for professional development in engineering. Accept feedback as an opportunity to improve your abilities and contribute more effectively to your projects. This approach will benefit you throughout your engineering career.

You have to stay always as open-minded as possible and never forget that negative feedback is never intended to make you feel bad, its primary goal is to empower you and show you how to become a better engineer.

One thing I’ve found helpful is staying calm under pressure, which is key to being assertive. When you get negative feedback, it’s natural to feel defensive or upset. But staying composed helps you respond thoughtfully. Take a moment to breathe and gather your thoughts before replying. This little pause can make a big difference in handling the situation professionally.

When you receive criticism, it’s important to suggest practical steps to address the issue or improve your work. This shows you’re proactive and open to collaboration. Being seen as a problem-solver is a valuable skill in any engineering role.

Why would you need to be assertive about feedback? It’s someone else’s opinion. If you respect their abilities and insight, incorporate the change. If you don’t, stick with your own plan.