Even if it is not all your fault

7.  Even if it is not all your fault

Sometimes multiple people are involved in creating a problem.  If this is the case, completely define and apologize for your part.  If others who report to you are involved, take full responsibility. 
(To be continued.)

Now is the time

6.  Now is the time

Act quickly.  Yes, be prepared but prepare fast.  Every minute that an offense rests with an individual it goes deeper and deeper.  If you take your time you will make restoration of the relationship more difficult.  If you wait too long it may become impossible to resolve. 
(To be continued.)

No “If I’s”

5.  No “If I’s”

In almost every major political scandal, where an apology is offered, it often goes like this: “If I caused my constituency any concern…”.  The “If I” makes the apology disingenuous.  You either believe you caused pain and concern or not.  So make up your mind and instead say “I know I did this to you and I am sorry.”
Tiger Woods recent apology for his screw-ups was well crafted and delivered perfectly with no “If I’s”.  Woods stated what he did, who he hurt, how it effected them and concluded by saying “I apologize.” 
(To be continued.)