Apologies for the Socially Challenged
For some reason it turns out that this is necessary:
When you make a mistake, you might have learned as a child that you avoid punishment by lying. This will not work as an adult – because the one who will be able to notice that a mistake was made in the first place will also be qualified to smell bullshit when it’s offered to them.
So here is the correct way to handle making a mistake – ANY MISTAKE – to remain professionally reputable:
Step 0: Keep records of the entire situation for your benefit.
Step 1. If possible, point out the mistake before someone else sees it.
Step 2. Apologize. Yes – that’s pretty simple, but it’s something missed by most people. Of course, an apology is meaningless without the other steps.
Step 3. Vow to resolve the mistake or to find someone who can. Saying “Sorry” but dumping the problem back into their lap unresolved is the equivalent of saying “Fuck you.” If you do this – people will go out of their way to hurt you.
Step 4. Actually resolve the problem or find someone who can. If you can’t resolve it for any reason then present the records showing how you tried to resolve it and why you were unable to do so.
Step 5. Apologize for the inconvenience. I’d recommend vowing to ensure perfection the next time around, but that can bite you hard if it wasn’t completely under your control. If you relied on vendors or contractors who failed, fire them.
It’s that simple. Do this, and your reputation will stand as someone who accomplishes missions… No one is perfect – and those who claim to be will lose the most when they do.
I’ve made mistakes and have failed both minorly and majorly. It’s amazing how positive the response can be if you can take the time to show concern over your fail. It’s becoming a rare thing.
As both an employer and a manager of a host of vendors, I will not tolerate bullshit. Lie to me, and your life will be a nightmare. My reputation for honest and honorable relationships is pretty solid because I resolve any and every issue that arises, and when I say someone is unprofessional – that holds weight.
