When It Really Is Your Fault

Your eyes are wide and your palms are sweating. Oh no, I really messed up this time. How am I going to recover from this?

We’ve all had these moments in the workplace. There’s an accidental oversight, a miscommunication, or a flat-out error that is one hundred percent your fault. While there may be consequences (or if nothing else, a bruised ego), you can and will get through this. It’s all in how you handle the situation moving forward.

How should this be handled? Let’s jump in.

 

Step 1: Relax

While you shouldn’t see the situation as a walk in the park, panicking isn’t going to get you anywhere. The moment you feel your heart sink, take 1-2 minutes to breathe. This step is critical because it sets the tone for your behavior in steps 2-6.

 

Step 2: Assess

Next, figure out exactly what happened and what actions you took that contributed to the issue. Is there a possibility that you can fix it yourself with minimal damage done? If not, take inventory of what led to the current problem.

 

Step 3: Problem Solve

Before running to apologize to higher-ups, formulate a couple of possible solutions to the issue. Even if you can’t act on them yourself, be ready to share with the necessary party. It’s a lot easier to hear bad news if resolution ideation is already rolling.

 

Step 4: Approach the Appropriate Individual

Once you’ve assessed what happened and have a few solutions laid out, approach the appropriate individual who needs to know about the situation. Be calm, and be matter of fact. As tempting as it may be to unleash the biggest apology of your lifetime, there is time for emotions later. Right now, focus on explaining what happened, take ownership, and suggest ways you’re prepared to fix it.

 

Step 5: Take Action

You’ve relaxed, assessed, problem-solved, and informed. Now it’s time to put the plan into motion. Take the necessary actions required to mend the problem according to your conversation with the appropriate individual.

 

Step 6: Be Proactive

Mistakes are bound time happen from time to time. No one is perfect, and we’re all going to experience a “Yikes!” moment here and there. What is crucial is to not let the mistake happen again. Make a plan to ensure that the mistake will not be repeated. A mistake made once is a learning experience. A mistake made twice is carelessness.

 

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About Debi

Debi is a coach to high performers, leaders and business owners wanting to achieve more and grow beyond what they believe is possible. Known for her clarifying insight and a pragmatic approach, Debi brings her clients to the next step by asking the right questions during strategy development and supporting them during strategy implementation. With experience in management, recruitment and employee development for various industries, she has a wide scope of expertise and will confidently guide you towards a successful future in your career.

 

Ready to take your career to the next level?

Let’s chat. Schedule a call to discuss innovative solutions to your specific needs.

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Show Your Employees Some Love

It’s that time of year again, folks! Whether you dread or wait on pins and needles for it, Valentine’s Day is on the horizon. A holiday traditionally meant for romantic festivities between partners, Valentine’s Day has now expanded into a holiday filled with commemorating moments between partners, families, friends, and even…..employees.

Let’s take a quick step back, no need to create a Human Resources scandal here! What we are saying is, work isn’t all results, profit, performance, etc. As a leader, it is vital that you show your employees that you care for them through your actions, words, and behaviors.

Keep reading to discover how you can show your employees love in a mutually beneficial way to them, and to the company.

 

Remember They Are People, Just Like You

As previously stated, there is more to a business beyond results, and more to people than what they can do for you. Remember that your employees are individuals too, with families, friends, hobbies, fears, and more. Treat them accordingly. Does Daniel really need to be a part of the late Friday afternoon meeting that has nothing to do with his work beyond him being on your team? Or can he head out so he can make it to his kindergartener’s soccer game? Does Cheryl truly need to be in the office Monday through Friday, or can she work from home 2 days a week to spend time with her ill husband?

So often, we require actions of employees that truly aren’t necessary, but are “the way it’s always been done”. However, if small tweaks are made, quality of work-life balance for these individuals can improve immensely. Remember that your employees are more than just employees, they’re just like you.

 

Recognition is Powerful

Never underestimate the importance of recognition for your employees. As a leader, you are recognized more often than you may realize. You are the head of your team or company, therefore all the praise for your business’s triumphs typically falls onto you, not the individuals contributing long hours and skills towards to collective success. Be very, very mindful of the work of your team members, and make a significant effort to recognize them, both publicly and privately. At the monthly company meeting, share praises regarding top-achievers from the month. Invite individuals to your office for congratulatory conversations. People want to feel that the work that they do matters. Show them that it does.

 

When Opportunities Arises

However, even more important than remembrance and recognition is raising others up. When opportunities land on your desk that you have the perfect individual to lead the charge, give them the opportunity to do so. Should a career-changing big break be brought up in an executive meeting, be the person to mention the name of a deserving individual. Don’t gate-keep opportunities, hand them out every chance you get.

 

 

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About Debi

Debi is a coach to high performers, leaders and business owners wanting to achieve more and grow beyond what they believe is possible. Known for her clarifying insight and a pragmatic approach, Debi brings her clients to the next step by asking the right questions during strategy development and supporting them during strategy implementation. With experience in management, recruitment and employee development for various industries, she has a wide scope of expertise and will confidently guide you towards a successful future in your career.

 

Ready to take your career to the next level?

Let’s chat. Schedule a call to discuss innovative solutions to your specific needs.

 

 

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