Like everyone else, leaders occasionally cross boundaries, say hurtful things, and break relationship rules.
Those affected by those transgressions expect and deserve an apology. Leaders who say they are sorry bring closure to the mistake or mishap and reaffirm the rules of the relationship.
Apologies also heighten self-awareness and strengthen a leader’s resolve not to give in to the same weakness in the future. Asking for forgiveness in the form of an apology would seem a natural thing for leaders to do, but they often avoid it.
Too many leaders hide behind their intentions and fail to apologize for their misdeeds. This leaves the other party feeling unsupported, undervalued, and angry. The consequence is less trust and openness.
Admitting a mistake is never easy for most leaders. Many leaders view mistakes and the apologies that follow them as signs of weakness.
Too many leaders prefer to brush past an indiscretion rather than acknowledge it. As a result, they don’t apologize nearly as often as they should. This makes their relationship after a mishap very awkward for those around them. Without an apology, colleagues are left wondering where they stand with the leader and when the same offense might repeat itself.
Good leaders own their mistakes and apologize when they should. They don’t hide behind their intentions to explain away their bad behavior.
Simply believing that they didn’t intend to do harm, insult, or offense doesn’t allow a leader to explain away the transgression. Good intentions won’t let good leaders off the hook when an apology is expected. Leaders who take accountability for their actions and messages say they are sorry.
Ask yourself how often you apologize for your actions. If you can’t recall the last time you asked for forgiveness from anyone in the workplace, you’re probably ignoring the impact of your mistakes.
By admitting to and taking full ownership of your mistakes, you show yourself to be human, not weak. Letting others know your relationship with them matters requires an apology now and again.
When a leader apologizes, they refuse to excuse themselves from their actions. This tells colleagues that they are accountable, just as they ask others to be. An apology sends a clear signal that a leader has a strength of character equal to the task of leading.
The symbolism of saying you’re sorry goes well beyond the present moment. It is a powerful reflection of how a leader relates to the truth.
A Daily Dispatch from the Front Lines of Leadership.
