Should You Confess to Making Mistakes at Work
I messed up at work and made a big mistake on a client proposal. All I can say is that it was the result of a lapse of concentration and while it had no negative impact on the company, it was noted by my client. The issue didn’t go any further, but I want to take responsibility and own up to my manager regardless. How do I admit to my mistakes without seeming incompetent? Or is it better to let it pass quietly and let it go unnoticed?
So you made a mistake at work and found yourself in a little workplace blunder. It happens to the best of us. I can recall a few emails meant for work pals that were sent straight to the boss instead. Luckily, it sounds like your slip-up didn't cause any major disasters, but the client caught wind of it before you could fix it.
Firstly, before we get into my advice, I want to validate you and say that it’s OK to make mistakes, and unfortunately, you’re probably going to make another one at some point in your career. It’s normal.
To 'fess up or not to 'fess up?
The short answer is always yes.
On one hand, you could let it slide and hope it never resurfaces like that embarrassing childhood haircut. On the other hand, there's that nagging feeling that your boss is just waiting for you to confess so that they can help you with any consequences.
Your willingness to own up speaks volumes about your integrity and maturity. We love to see an honest character at work!
So, how do you break the news? Keep it simple.
Start the conversation with your manager by saying, "Hey, something's been weighing on me, and I’d like to chat about it." Explain what happened, how you fixed it, and that you just want to make sure you're following the right protocol for next time.
Remember, it's not about the mistake itself, but about your willingness to own it and learn from it.
Your boss will appreciate your honesty and dedication to doing better. Plus, you'll earn brownie points for being proactive and providing a solution.
It’s really important after this that you seek feedback and guidance from your boss about how to avoid this mistake in the future. You shouldn’t assume that your solution was the best at the time - you were simply making do with the tools that you had.
It’s then crucial to take on this advice and use it as a learning for the future.
On the other hand, let’s say that you have a temperamental boss that may have an over-the-top reaction to any mistake - now this can be a bit more tricky to manage.
I’d advise that you have some kind of witness with you, whether that’s a colleague or HR if you feel that the relationship is that volatile.
That way, you can keep your integrity, protect your peace, whilst also being honest and honouring the business you work for.
Wishing you the best of luck.
Yours truly,
The Candid Career Coach