How To Tell Someone They're Wrong (And Make Them Feel Good About It)

... when telling someone they're wrong.

Be concrete and don't sermonize, even if the person that's receiving your criticism knows she did something wrong.

Objectivity is crucial to constructive criticism.

The goal is to communicate that a performance standard has not been met. Your sentiments/judgments are irrelevant.

For example, in saying "You were lazy in preparing this report" you may think you are helping the other person to improve a skills; instead, it addresses your assumption about the person's attitude toward their work.

Criticism without an action plan is worthless. 

Give people direction or keep your mouth shut.

If people feel you support their fundamental views and value them, the change will be easy and natural.