This post references a website https://sorrywatch.com/
All relationships need maintenance, whether intimate relationships, close friendships, acquaintances or relationships with colleagues. Part of developing relationships, especially intimate ones, is to be able to get over disagreement, difficulties and harsh words that were said in the heat of the moment.
The website referenced above, compiles stories about apologies. Many of the posts describe deplorable situations where corporations or individuals made the situation worse by issuing a clumsy or mishandled apology. The “apology” was sometimes more hurtful than the original offense. The negative can be instructive, and at times amusing. There are also positive stories where an apology was well handled, and the difference is obvious.
The website also provides guidelines to a good apology. It is surprising how many people ignore the obvious.
To paraphrase those steps:
- Take responsibility for your words, or actions. Say “I apologize” instead of a vague sentence ” I am sorry this happened”
- Acknowledge exactly what you are apologizing for. Do not let it be unclear.
- Show empathy and understanding why what you did was hurtful.
- Be careful not to provide excuses. Explanations, as long as they are honest and respectful of both sides, are OK
- Commit to not do it again. If it is something that can be corrected, do so.
