Danny Cowley says Pompey have to use supporter frustration as fuel to turn their form around.
They head into the busy Christmas schedule on the back of successive League One defeats to Wycombe and MK Dons.
First up is a trip down to Devon to face Exeter on Boxing Day, which precedes home contests with Ipswich and Charlton.
And Cowley insists his side will remain resolute in their quest to start climbing back up the table again.
The Blues boss said: “There are always really honest conversations – that happens whether we win, lose or draw.
“We were all disappointed with the result on Saturday and hurt by the reaction, but that’s something that is part of being involved in elite sport and we accept it.
“Expectations are high here – and rightly so. The criticisms can be huge when things don’t go well, but so can the rewards when they do.
“The reaction that we’ve received ultimately makes us stronger and we understand the passion of our supporters.
"We have to use the reaction to make us even more together as a group and we’re determined to put this run of league form right."
“They love this club and want it to do well, so when we don’t, it’s naturally going to affect their lives and make them frustrated.
“Now we have to use the reaction to make us even more together as a group and we’re determined to put this run of league form right.
“I’ve been lucky enough to have been involved in successful seasons and there will always be a storm. When it comes you have to navigate through it.
“Criticism is something that doesn’t faze me, but inside these four walls, it’s up to us to maintain a positive energy.
“We know what we have to do and are looking forward to the games coming up over the Christmas period.”
Exeter sit three places behind Pompey in the standings and Gary Caldwell’s men are looking to halt a five-match winless run in all competitions.
Cowley said: “It’s always a tough game there – there is a vociferous crowd and they get right behind their team.
“There have been a few tweaks since the new manager has come in, but they play with a real energy and press you aggressively.
“Exeter are a super competitive team and their academy has been incredibly successful in recent years, so they have young players with real energy and enthusiasm.”