When should you apologise for a mistake at work?
Most people have complex sentiments regarding apologies, and not all of our feelings and thoughts concerning apologies are in sync. When we were young, most of us have been compelled to apologise for hurting somebody, while others apologised voluntarily and felt instantly better. Even though some people believe that apologising is a show of weakness, especially in the workplace, apologies can indicate that you really are able and in charge by displaying that you recognise a mistake and how to resolve it.
However, even if you are willing to fix your faults, there are times that you should not say sorry. Yes, it is a good thing but one should also know when he or she should apologise.
In this article, we will help you identify when you should apologise for commiting a mistake in the workplace. Though apologies are essential, you must try avoiding apologising for each minor error you make at work. Co-workers and managers may regard you as weak and vulnerable if you provide a formalised, extensive apology for any little offense.
If you must take action to fix the situation, say you are completing your share of the work but relying on someone else to do his or her part, and that person is still not delivering. Nevertheless, initiating an apology implies that you will be at least somewhat to blame. It’s not a message you would like to convey to your colleague and let your boss notice. For that, you should not apologise for someone’s shortcomings.
Furthermore, We all get ill, hence why we have sick leave, plus, employees are still entitled to receive a vacation leave. For that, you don’t have to feel bad about having the illness or enjoying a summer vacation and be apologetic to your boss for missing work because you’re on leave. This is also the same as asking for products that are required for you to accomplish your job, and apologizing for that suggests that you don’t truly need or deserve them.
If you tell someone to do something, and you are their senior, don’t apologise for it, and don’t apologise for telling them that they have done a bad job, if they have. Stand up for yourself and be assertive. Being assertive and confident means that you don’t apologise for things that you can rationalise and that you believe in.
