Does \u2018sorry\u2019<\/em> really seem to be the hardest word, as Elton John once sang?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Actually, since conflict<\/a> and\/or mistakes are inevitable, an effective apology is one of the most important tools in workplace communication. Still, a simple \u2018sorry\u2019<\/em> might just not be enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As human beings, we have the need for reconciliation \u2014 which is why in this blog post, we\u2019ll deal with apologizing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n First, we\u2019ll consider the importance of apologizing at work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Then, we\u2019ll imagine scenarios in which we haven\u2019t apologized at work \u2014 and analyze the consequences of that unfortunate decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After that, we\u2019ll dissect an effective apology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the end, we\u2019ll give you some tips on how to apologize at work (including useful phrases you can use). <\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s dive into it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pumble makes apologizing at work easy<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n I\u2019ll give you two answers \u2014 a relatively short one and a longer one, with a few specific reasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s start with the relatively short one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the research article on conciliatory gestures<\/a>, mammals are especially prone to use \u201cconciliatory gestures\u201d<\/em> to signal their desire to end conflict and restore peace with other parties after the conflict. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As mammals, we tend to have similar psychology, according to McCullough, one of the authors of this research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In other words, it\u2019s in our nature to apologize and restore peace<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If this is not enough, here comes the longer answer, with specific reasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s say you were late for an important meeting. You prepared a presentation for your clients about the new features of the software you\u2019re developing, but there wasn\u2019t enough time to make your presentation. Your clients were dissatisfied with your unprofessional behavior and opted out of the deal. Your colleagues were mad at you, and rightly so, because your tardiness directly affected the project you\u2019re working on together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A pretty grim situation, right? <\/p>\n\n\n\n Yes, but there is a five-letter-word solution \u2014 Sorry.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you apologize to your colleagues for being late, you take responsibility for your actions and show your coworkers that you are aware that it affects the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When with certain transgressions you break trust among your colleagues<\/a>, the road to redemption is paved with apologies. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The previously mentioned research shows us that \u201cthe extent to which a transgressor offered conciliatory gestures to their victims was directly proportional to the extent to which those victims forgave over time.\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n These gestures change the victim\u2019s perception of the transgressor and influence their relationship, improving the trust among coworkers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s what neuropsychologist Alexander Burgemeester<\/a> had to say about this type of trust: <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAlthough it can be uncomfortable, it is important to always own up to something you may not have been right about if it affects another coworker. It is also important to remember that you are not less of a person because you are apologizing, and it actually makes you much more respected.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re already stressed, you don\u2019t need other sources of stress that would worsen your condition. And, you\u2019re not alone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to a survey, The Workplace and Stress<\/a>, conducted by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, one in five working adults experience a great deal of stress at work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So, if your actions have upset your colleagues (and, chances are, they have), apologizing might just be the way to decrease any workplace stress. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \ud83d\udca1 Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want to discover more ways of decreasing stress at the workplace, check out our in-depth article on wellness ideas for remote employees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Restoring peace in the workplace leads to better understanding and more open interpersonal communication<\/a> in the future. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If we keep in mind that, according to a McKinsey report<\/a>, productivity increases by 20\u201325% in teams that communicate effectively, it\u2019s easy to see why it\u2019s important to mend workplace relationships by apologizing for your mistakes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now that we\u2019ve seen the benefits of apologizing at work, let\u2019s consider what can happen if we don\u2019t apologize.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n Communicate and collaborate effectively with Pumble, an all-in-one digital HQ.<\/p>\n\n If saying \u2018sorry\u2019<\/em> has so many benefits for your workplace communication and collaboration, why do we sometimes avoid apologizing? <\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s what Dr. Michael Barbera<\/a>, a consumer psychologist and a business strategy consultant, had to say about this problem:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201c<\/em>An effective apology could mend an issue and enhance a relationship. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Social science researchers hypothesize there are three barriers to a transgressor’s apology: <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you don\u2019t overcome these barriers, there are possible direct consequences on your workplace atmosphere, such as: <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2014 <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s time to get acquainted with the anatomy of an effective apology. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Before we give you tips on how to apologize at work, we should consider the main components of an effective apology. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In their article, An Exploration of the Structure of Effective Apologies<\/a>, Roy J. Lewicki, Beth Polin, and Robert B. Lount Jr. claimed that \u201cthe composition of an apology matters. The structure of these narratives \u2014 in other words, the consideration of both format and content \u2014 affects perceptions of the transgressor.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Furthermore, they argue that a maximally effective apology should consist of 6 components: <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now that we\u2019re familiar with the structure of an effective apology, it\u2019s time for some more specific tips that will help you in your workplace communication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n An effective apology at work goes a long way and contributes to healthy workplace culture, to which we all strive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n We\u2019ve already analyzed the main components of an effective apology. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Now, all that\u2019s left for us to do is give you some specific tips on how to make your apology even more effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s start. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In 1992, the Vatican officially apologized to Galileo<\/a>. Moreover, the pope agreed that the Earth revolves around the Sun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n That\u2019s admirable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The only minor problem with this apology is that it came more than three centuries too late<\/em>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To avoid these kinds of cardinal mistakes when apologizing, make sure you do it soon after the incident<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That shows to your coworkers that you regret your actions, that you\u2019re aware of the consequences of your transgressions, and that you want to make amends. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if your transgression was a bit more serious, it\u2019s better to wait for everyone to cool their heads, and only then proceed with the apologies. <\/p>\n\n\n Use Pumble to apologize at work<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n When apologizing, make sure you pay attention to both your verbal and<\/strong> body language<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use the words \u2018I\u2019m sorry\u2019<\/em> or \u2018I apologize\u2019<\/em>, and, if possible, apologize privately<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whatever you do, make sure you omit any justifications<\/strong>, as well as the words \u201cif\u201d or \u201cbut\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, refrain from apologies such as these ones: <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry <\/em>if<\/em><\/strong> I hurt your feelings during the meeting.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Or<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry I made a mistake, <\/em>but<\/em><\/strong> you knew I didn\u2019t have enough time to finish the project.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n A consumer psychologist and a business strategy consultant Michael Barbera even advised us to skip the words \u201cI am sorry\u201d<\/em> altogether, as they have become a complacent phrase:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cFor example, if I accidentally bump into your shoulder, I would likely say \u2018I am sorry.\u2019 <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n These words have reduced meaning; therefore, \u2018I apologize\u2019 or \u2018my apologies\u2019 are likely to be more effective.<\/em>\u201d <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Addressing the recipient of your apology by name is respectful<\/a>, and it shows that you\u2019re aware that your actions have affected them directly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Altogether, addressing them by name improves the overall workplace atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Aside from that, it adds to the sincerity. <\/p>\n\n\n This leads us to our next tip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want to deliver a sincere apology, first, you should try to understand how the other person feels. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Empathy is the keyword here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you don\u2019t understand where you went wrong, it\u2019s best to first discuss your transgression with the wronged party. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Maybe then you\u2019ll both understand each other better. If you can acknowledge your part in the problem, you\u2019ll be able to sincerely apologize for your mistake. <\/p>\n\n\n Always make sure you take the other person\u2019s feelings into account. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s essential to acknowledge their feelings and, if possible, include them in your apology, as in the example from the business messaging platform Pumble<\/a> by CAKE.com<\/a> below.<\/p>\n\n\n Discuss, collaborate, & apologize with Pumble.<\/p>\n\n Burgemeester also places a great value on validating other people\u2019s feelings when apologizing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cYou should always acknowledge the other person\u2019s feelings as well and give them a chance to speak. You can also ask for their forgiveness as you want the relationship to not be hindered by what happened.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n This one\u2019s maybe the hardest one \u2014 take responsibility for your actions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Nobody wants to be wrong, but the truth is \u2014 nobody can always be right. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Whatever you do, when apologizing, don\u2019t make excuses (even if you believe they are valid). <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s only natural to want to explain what happened, but don\u2019t forget the crucial part of your apology \u2014 showing them that you\u2019re aware of your mistake and that you\u2019re sorry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Aside from all the above-mentioned benefits, this step shows your colleagues that you won\u2019t repeat the same mistakes.<\/p>\n\n\n When apologizing to your colleagues, don\u2019t forget to mention how you\u2019ll correct your mistake. This shows that you have thought about how you can make things right. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Aside from that, you can show your coworkers you don\u2019t intend to make the same mistake again. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, be realistic with your promises, if you want to keep them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, don\u2019t promise them you won\u2019t ever be late for work again \u2014 you cannot possibly know whether you can keep that promise. <\/p>\n\n\n After you\u2019ve explained your plan for fixing the mistake you made, make sure you keep those promises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n By doing that, you\u2019re showing your coworkers that you\u2019re sincere and committed to maintaining and improving your professional relationship with them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n On the other hand, if you fail to keep your promises, you risk losing your team\u2019s trust, not to mention how unprofessional that might seem to clients. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if you keep your promise, it will surely be appreciated by your team. <\/p>\n\n\n \u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n We\u2019ve guided you through 8 steps towards an effective apology, but our work isn\u2019t over just yet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In the following paragraphs, we will provide you with some useful phrases for apologizing at work.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n By the end of this post, you\u2019ll be fully equipped to effectively apologize. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Oftentimes, we use the word \u2018sorry<\/em>\u2019 in the workplace too many times. We apologize if someone bumps into us in the office, or if we are trying to squeeze our way to lunch. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Over time, the word \u2018sorry<\/em>\u2019 loses its meaning. When we do need to apologize and get our sincerity across, the word \u2018sorry<\/em>\u2019 seems like it\u2019s not enough. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So, let\u2019s talk about some of the ways how you can say sorry, without actually using the word \u2018sorry<\/em>\u2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This one might seem a little too much on the nose, but consider giving the same apology and omitting the word \u2018sorry<\/em>\u2019. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Since we established that \u2018sorry<\/em>\u2019 is overplayed and, in the end, it only shows low self-esteem, your apology would be of stronger effect and more sincerity if you just go straight to the point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s a suggestion: <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI realize I have made a mistake, and I am working hard to fix it immediately.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Standing in your power and showing confidence is also the key to a good and heartfelt apology. <\/p>\n\n\n\n We have heard shaky \u2018sorries<\/em>\u2019 far too much around the office. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So instead of apologizing for missing a deadline, for example, show gratitude for getting an extension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For instance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThank you for agreeing to give me an extension on my task.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n We can all agree that empty words don\u2019t bring anything of value to the table. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When you are trying to fix a mistake, back up your words with immediate action that will show your intention and dedication to rectify the situation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s easy to get caught up in \u2018word vomits\u2019. We tend to overcompensate when we are feeling anxious. Take a deep breath, deliver a direct apology and get to work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThere\u2019s no excuse for my oversight. Here is how I plan on doing better.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n A lot of us feel the need to utter the word \u2018sorry<\/em>\u2019 if we are interrupting someone while they work, or if we wish to ask our supervisor a question. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The advice here is to, instead of saying \u2018sorry\u2019, just get to the point. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For example, you can ask your colleagues \u201cDo you have a minute<\/em>\u201d, or \u201cIs now a good time to chat about [xyz]<\/em>?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s how that looks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIf you have a minute I would like to discuss how I can do better on future projects.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n There are a lot of ways to avoid the \u2018sorry<\/em>\u2019 conundrum with simple use of synonyms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Think of it like this: If we are so keen on repeating the same word over and over again, that same word loses its meaning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Now, the word \u2018sorry<\/em>\u2019 is overused \u2014 but its synonyms are barely heard in the workplace. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Therefore, let\u2019s jump into all the different ways to say sorry and learn together how to exude confidence and remorse at the same time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Using \u201cI regret<\/em>\u201d instead of saying \u201cSorry\u201d<\/em> offers a bigger impact. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This simple phrase can help you make your apology sound more sincere \u2014 and it also shows deep remorse for your actions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n We all want our apologies to translate to the other person. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s compare: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Although \u201cI apologize<\/em>\u201d seems quite similar to the phrase \u201cI\u2019m sorry<\/em>\u201d, the former is a more professional and direct approach. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Stating that you apologize for making a mistake or letting down the team will make room in your apology to explain yourself, and it\u2019s setting up the tone that you are asking for honest forgiveness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s compare: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Though this one sounds and feels a tad bit too personal, it can serve you well in the workplace. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Sometimes, adding a personal touch or your true feelings is not a bad idea. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t forget that neither you nor your coworkers are robots. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Too many feelings are not appropriate for the workplace, but a little goes a long way. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To illustrate: <\/p>\n\n\n\nWhy is it important to apologize at work? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
By saying \u2018sorry\u2019<\/em> you show others that you acknowledge your actions <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
By saying \u2018sorry\u2019<\/em> you rebuild trust <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/alexander-burgemeester.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
By saying \u2018sorry\u2019 <\/em>you decrease workplace stress<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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By saying \u2018sorry\u2019<\/em> you improve communication<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\nWhat can happen if you don\u2019t apologize at work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Michael-Barbera.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
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6 components of an effective apology<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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How to apologize at work <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Apologize soon after the incident<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Apologizing](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Apologizing-soon-after-the-incident-Pumble-business-messaging-app.png\")
Decide how you\u2019ll apologize<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
![\"Decide](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Decide-how-youll-apologize-Pumble-business-messaging-app.png\")
Address your recipient by name<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Addressing](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Addressing-your-recipient-by-name-Pumble-business-messaging-app.png\")
Apologize with sincerity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Apologizing](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Apologizing-with-sincerity-Pumble-business-messaging-app.png\")
Validate how the other person feels<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Validate](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Validate-how-the-other-person-feels-Pumble-business-messaging-app.png\")
![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-2@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
Admit to your responsibility (focus on your own actions)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Admitting](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Admitting-to-your-responsibility-Pumble-business-messaging-app.png\")
Explain how you\u2019ll correct your mistake<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Explain](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Explain-how-youll-correct-your-mistake-Pumble-business-messaging-app.png\")
Keep your promises<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Keep](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Keep-your-promises-Pumble-business-messaging-app.png\")
How to say sorry without saying sorry <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tip #1: Deliver your apology while omitting the word \u2018sorry<\/em>\u2019<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Tip #2: Show gratitude instead of remorse <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Tip #3: Remember that actions trump words<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Tip #4: Never apologize for your existence <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Tip #5: Use the different ways to say sorry<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Use \u201cI regret<\/em>\u201d instead of \u201cSorry<\/em>\u201d<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Use \u201cI apologize<\/em>\u201d instead of \u201cSorry<\/em>\u201d<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Use \u201cForgive me<\/em>\u201d instead of \u201cSorry<\/em>\u201d<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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