Accountable Apologies

Accountable Apologies

“Never ruin an apology with an excuse.” ~Benjamin Franklin

When you break an agreement—miss that meeting, deadline or date—do so accountably.

Own your error.

Apologize, of course, but lose your precious reasons that generally skip along hand-in-hand with your “I’m sorry.”

However, don’t over apologize.

Over apologizing waters down your message and dilutes its impact.

Your reasons are your reasons; keep them to yourself.

When you list them, it smacks of complaining, as though you’re not really responsible.

You are.

It’s helpful to keep in mind the three parts of an effective apology: “I’m sorry;” “It won’t happen again;” and “What can I do to make it right?”

Keep your apology short and sweet. Most of the time, parts one and two, delivered clearly and sincerely—once—will eliminate the need for number three.

Don’t complain—don’t explain.

It’s a powerful combination.



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About
Cynthia Barlow

Founder Cynthia Barlow

Facilitator, Author, Coach

Helping businesses build their people

When your people have the skills to communicate more effectively, they can connect more easily and collaborate more productively. Not only on the job, but also in life.

Communication, Connection, and Collaboration—the three “C’s”—are the cornerstones of all successful businesses. They are the result of Emotional Intelligence in action.

More details can be found in my recent best seller with co-author Jennifer Eggers:
Resilience: It’s Not About Bouncing Back

The power of resilience within organizations can transform an average company into a powerhouse. Yet, even in times of rapid disruptive change, there is no manual for building resilient organizations. This book is that manual.

“If you  want to build more resilience intentionally—personally and professionally—read this book.
~
Fran Karamousis, Chief  of Research, Gartner

 

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