As a leader, do you apologise to your team when you make a mistake? If you’re reluctant to do so, don’t worry; you’re not alone.
Past studies have shown that most leaders see apologising as something detrimental to their reputation. They don’t like admitting and apologising for their mistakes as they think it will make them look incompetent or weak.
A new study conducted by researchers from the Harvard Business School and the Wharton School in University of Pennsylvania, however, has shown that apologising—even for situations that are not within your control—can actually make you appear more likeable and trustworthy to others.
Alison Brooks and her team conducted a total of four studies examining the effect of a superfluous apology on trust.
The research supports the view that leaders with Emotional Intelligence who are self-aware and have the sensitivity needed to recognise when to apologise will have the respect of their team members and will build trust quickly. Building trust in the workplace results in employees who are happier, and importantly, are more productive.
“By issuing a superfluous apology,” Brooks and her team write, “the apologiser communicates that he has taken the victim’s perspective, acknowledges adversity, and expresses regret.” They add that apologising shows concern, thereby increasing a person’s trust towards the one who apologised.
How do you apologise in the workplace? Here are some tips:
· Take responsibility for the mistake you’ve made and apologise to those who have been affected by it, even if they’re your underlings.
· Express regret and explain what you plan to do to move forward.
· Encourage your team to observe changes and give you feedback on your progress. This shows your sincerity to change for the better.
· Always keep in mind to be authentic. Commit only to things you can honestly do. If you have a naturally extroverted personality, for example, it’s not realistic to say you will become an introvert.
Leaders who have the courage and self-confidence to admit mistakes (even if they are not theirs) and apologise for them, will win the respect of their team members. It may not be easy to do and recognising when it is appropriate is the key.
That is why successful leaders develop their Emotional Intelligence, to enhance their self-awareness and the sensitivity needed to understand others' emotional needs and to use that knowledge to drive their success.
Reference: Brooks, A.W., Dai, H., & Schweitzer, M.E. (2013). I’m sorry about the rain! Superfluous apologies demonstrate empathic concern and increase trust. Social Psychological and Personality Science.
Business Tips
Why Leaders with high Emotional Intelligence (EQ) apologise
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- Category: Leadership
