Most of us learned in Kindergarten that we should say “I’m sorry” when we hurt someone and “I was wrong” when we made a mistake.
These can be hard lessons to learn, depending on our level of bullheadedness. However, these simple acts show respect to the person affected, which helps build trusting relationships.
Accountability Plays a Major Role in the Workplace
Nobody’s perfect. But we all want to be. The reality is that we all make missteps, have misunderstandings, or don’t perform at 100% all the time.
What Accountability Does NOT Look Like
We all remember accidentally breaking our sister’s toy and shoving it under the bed, hoping nobody would notice. Falling short of expectations can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. It’s tempting to:
- Shift responsibility to others, or blame external factors.
- Offer excuses instead of solutions.
- Avoid discussing the issue directly.
- Get defensive.
While these choices may save us from having to say those painful little words like “I’m sorry” or “I was wrong”, they may frustrate the ones, damaging the trust they have in you.
How Should You Show Accountability?
Owning up to imperfections helps us grow and learn as people. Show accountability by:
- Acknowledging mistakes. Apologizing or admitting you were wrong shows others you’re honest, transparent, and dependable.
- Taking ownership. Accept full responsibility for and the consequences of your actions.
- Offering solutions. Proactively find solutions that can minimize the effects of mistakes or errors in judgment.
- Accepting feedback. Calmly listen to and accept constructive criticism and use it to learn and grow.
How Does Showing Accountability Help You Succeed in the Workplace?
As challenging as it can seem to admit mistakes and take the blame for your missteps, doing so can help you succeed in your career goals. Accountability:
- Builds trust and credibility. When you admit your mistakes, you bolster your reputation as a solid, straight shooter.
- Reduces conflicts. Sincere apologies can diffuse tense situations and keep them from becoming divisive, long-term issues.
- Improves team dynamics. Taking ownership sets a collaborative tone where others can (hopefully) learn by example.
- Creates a growth mindset. Accountability shows that you’re open to learning from your mistakes and committed to continuously improving.
Mistakes are inevitable. Saying “I’m sorry”, just like you learned in Kindergarten, goes a long way in building trust, reducing conflict, and fostering a culture of accountability. So, next time something goes wrong, don’t be afraid to own up. Your professional relationships will be stronger because of it.
We are rooting for you!
Avery and Brian