Focus on the weak spots.

It’s ok to admit it–you’re a sharp shooter, a perfectionist; no little flaw goes unnoticed under your supervision. Design reviews are the ideal opportunity to demonstrate that hawk vision you possess. See a color you don’t like? Shout it! Did you spot a text that is a bit misaligned? Interrupt the presenter and let them know where they failed! Sure, it might crush the designer’s spirit a bit, and you might be creating a stressful environment, but this is the only way they’ll ever grow.

Some naysayers would suggest giving feedback using the “sandwich approach,” where you squeeze the negative comment between two positive responses. But who wants two slices of bread when they can have all meat? (You gotta watch those carbs). Honesty is the best policy.

PRO TIP: Use subjective absolutes like “Your fonts look ugly” or “I don’t like those colors” (even though the designer is using brand colors). Comments like these will keep them on their toes and scared of ever making mistakes again.

EVEN-MORE-PRO TIP: Ask the designer subtly loaded questions like “These wireframes are ok, but when can we see the higher fidelity?” (even though you know they’re presenting the final designs). These kinds of questions will make the designer doubt their performance, forcing them to think deeper.