How to Apologize to My Boss

You make a mistake at the workplace and perhaps offend your boss or create costly repercussions from your error. Whatever the specific situation, you owe a profound and timely apology for your actions. Do not waste any time delivering a sincere and heartfelt apology. When you admit your mistake, accept responsibility and strive to make amends with your boss, you earn respect and you help facilitate a positive resolution to the situation.

Instructions

1. Think through the situation and analyze your mistake to ensure you thoroughly understand what happened. Make a few notes, if necessary, to help yourself gain a clear understanding of where you went wrong and what you should have done instead. Get advice or guidance from others you respect if you have difficulty analyzing the situation that led to your mistake.

2. Make a general plan of what you want to say as you apologize to your boss. Don’t make a script, but think through the important points you must cover so you do not forget anything. Rehearse your apology in front of the mirror if you are nervous.

3. Approach your boss at a time when you can be alone in a one-on-one situation. Try to time your apology for when your boss is not busy or distracted by other situations.

4. Establish steady eye contact with your boss and start your words with a direct apology. Say, “I’m sorry for (state the specific error).” Accept clear responsibility for making the error and elaborate specifically about the mistake you made to communicate to your boss that you realize your mistake and its repercussions. Finish your apology by striving to mend the rift or correct the situation. Tell your boss that you have learned a valuable lesson or that you will not repeat any similar mistakes in the future.

5. Listen attentively to your boss’s response to your apology. Accept what your boss tells you. Reiterate your responsibility and resolve not to repeat similar mistakes again, if appropriate.

References

• American Management Association: Apologizing