‘I am sorry’ is a three-word statement, but when said at the proper time and in the correct tone it can make all the difference in the world. However, there are times when you are unable to give an apology to someone you work with, especially in an office. Why?
While there can be multiple reasons for you to not apologize to someone for a mistake you committed, your workplace relationship needs to be healthy. So, all those who often find themselves in little arguments and fights must take a look at the guide on how to sincerely apologize to a colleague.
Say Sorry ASAP
Whether you are an egoist or not, saying sorry will never make you small. On the contrary, it shows how humble you are for admitting to your mistake instead of defending it. The fastest way to repair a relationship or understanding is by apologising for your mistake as soon as possible. Sorries never hurt people, only bring them closer.
Don’t make Excuses
The number 1 rule for how to say sorry at work is not to make an excuse. Yes, you read that right! Though making an excuse seems like an easy way to go; in reality, it is just dishonest. Also, sometimes people can see through your perfectly planned explanation. So, do yourself and your colleagues a favour by not making an excuse or justifying your actions because they only make matters worse.
Be Honest
Honesty is one of the most important things to remember while making workplace apologies. As the saying goes, honesty is the best policy; it is ideal for you and your relationship with co-workers to be upfront with them. No matter how tough it may seem, an honest sorry will mend things faster and a lot better. It's the 1st lesson in the how-to apologise for a mistake professionally 101 class.
Give a Goodwill Present
Did you mess up a task? Whether you want to apologise to your manager or colleague for creating a mess, do it with I'm sorry gifts. There are several ideas like a box of brownies, a lunch treat, a diary or even a body mist that make wonderful goodwill presents. However, get the gift after the fires have been put out and things have calmed down.
Leave a Note
Another great way to send an apology to someone you work with is by leaving them a note. Write how sorry you are and would love to be given a chance to mend your relationship on a sticky note. Paste it on your colleague's desk before he/she comes to work. Also, make sure to sign your name!
Apologise Face to Face
If you are wondering how to apologise to a colleague, a face-to-face conversation is ideal. This way you remove any scope of misunderstanding or gaps and can make up for your fault no matter how big or small. Also, remember that you are in the wrong, so it would be wise to keep your temper cool and sort the difference.
Gurnika Talwar is FNP’s marketing and creative content writer and has been with the firm since 2020. She is based in Delhi, India and has been in this field for 2+ years.
She started her journey as a freshman but since then has created content on several mediums. With blogging on gift ideas, food, gardening tips and whatnot as her primary goal, she has also curated content for social media and brand films. As a storyteller, she creates original, genuine, and relatable content to connect with the mass. Besides work, you’ll find her chit-chatting about movies or making sarcastic jokes.
Whether you are an egoist or not, saying sorry will never make you small. On the contrary, it shows how humble you are for admitting to your mistake instead of defending it. The fastest way to repair a relationship or understanding is by apologising for your mistake as soon as possible. Sorries never hurt people, only bring them closer.
The number 1 rule for how to say sorry at work is not to make an excuse. Yes, you read that right! Though making an excuse seems like an easy way to go; in reality, it is just dishonest. Also, sometimes people can see through your perfectly planned explanation. So, do yourself and your colleagues a favour by not making an excuse or justifying your actions because they only make matters worse.
Honesty is one of the most important things to remember while making workplace apologies. As the saying goes, honesty is the best policy; it is ideal for you and your relationship with co-workers to be upfront with them. No matter how tough it may seem, an honest sorry will mend things faster and a lot better. It's the 1st lesson in the how-to apologise for a mistake professionally 101 class.
Did you mess up a task? Whether you want to apologise to your manager or colleague for creating a mess, do it with I'm sorry gifts. There are several ideas like a box of brownies, a lunch treat, a diary or even a body mist that make wonderful goodwill presents. However, get the gift after the fires have been put out and things have calmed down.
Another great way to send an apology to someone you work with is by leaving them a note. Write how sorry you are and would love to be given a chance to mend your relationship on a sticky note. Paste it on your colleague's desk before he/she comes to work. Also, make sure to sign your name!
If you are wondering how to apologise to a colleague, a face-to-face conversation is ideal. This way you remove any scope of misunderstanding or gaps and can make up for your fault no matter how big or small. Also, remember that you are in the wrong, so it would be wise to keep your temper cool and sort the difference. 
