Don't Listen To Critics With No Credentials
Feedback in business is to be expected and welcomed, if we are to learn anything we need to step outside of ourselves and be willing to receive feedback. Once in a while in business, however, you might receive criticism from critics that are more of a distraction than useful feedback. This often comes from individuals who don't really care about your sector or even have any experience in what you are doing but are very quick to offer observations which can sometimes stifle your growth, confidence and progress. If you spend too much time dwelling on the feedback you become distracted, confused and demotivated. Try to filter out the useful and the constructive critique from those who are simply energy sappers and confidence killers.
Useful feedback offers a mirror, reflecting the blind spots, hidden strengths and untapped potential we might otherwise overlook. However like any powerful tool, feedback only works when it’s used intentionally. Without the discernment to separate helpful guidance from meaningless noise, entrepreneurs and professionals risk being thrown off course, losing confidence in their voice and doubting their direction.
In the world of personal branding, where standing out requires vulnerability and boldness, criticism often comes uninvited and to be honest sometimes unqualified. You post something meaningful, take a stance or promote your services and suddenly out of the woodwork comes unsolicited opinions or nit-pickers who highlight a minor error or mistake. Not all of it is wrong but not all of it matters and the challenge is learning which voices to let in and which to tune out.
Not every critic is qualified to critique, some criticism comes from people who’ve never walked your path, built what you’re building or even understand what your goals are in the first place. They may not grasp your audience, your intention or your values and yet they’re quick to dish out advice or dismiss your efforts based on their own limited world view. Their feedback isn’t rooted in experience or expertise, it’s noise disguised as insight and it can be incredibly distracting if you give it too much attention.
Spending time absorbing nonconstructive criticism doesn’t just slow progress, it chips away at the very confidence that powers your personal brand. You start second-guessing your choices and you may even start playing small, keeping your head down to avoid the possibility of being misunderstood or mocked - this is something I did for a while when I was growing my youtube channel, I snapped out of it but the impact was real.
Filtering out the unnecessary noise is a crucial skill because not all feedback should carry equal weight. Instead of reacting to every comment, learn to ask: Is this person familiar with my work, my goals or my audience? Do they genuinely want to help me grow or are they just projecting their own insecurities? Is the critique specific, actionable and given with respect? If the answer is no, then it's likely not feedback it’s a distraction and even more sinister it is intended to derail you.
It is so important to protect your mental space so that constructive feedback can land where it should. The best insights often come from mentors, peers, clients and others who understand the nuances of your journey. Their perspective can challenge you, sharpen your brand and help you evolve but even then, you have the right to reflect and choose what aligns with your values and vision.
Building a personal brand means putting yourself out there and that will always invite feedback. But you don’t have to accept every piece of feedback as truth. The strongest personal brands are shaped by courageous decisions, thoughtful refinement and the ability to stand tall in the face of scepticism.
If you’re ready to build a brand that reflects your true voice and confidently cut through the noise I can help you turn insight into impact. Let’s start refining your message, strengthening your strategy and building a brand that’s undeniably yours.
