

Reverb 21: Repairing After You’ve Misspoken: Turning Missteps into Opportunities
8 snips May 12, 2025
Explore how leaders can turn verbal missteps into trust-building opportunities. Discover the significance of acknowledging and rectifying mistakes in a team environment. Learn the art of sincere apologies and the balance of owning errors while being sensitive to others' feelings. Hear about the importance of fostering a culture of feedback and accountability. Personal experiences highlight the need for open dialogue and empathy after communication breakdowns, emphasizing the power of humility in leadership.
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Intent Doesn't Erase Impact
- Leaders often unintentionally hurt others with their words, much like stepping on a foot in the dark.
- Intent does not erase the impact; what matters is owning and addressing the misstep quickly.
Empower Feedback for Awareness
- Empower team members to feel safe pointing out when your words hurt others.
- Without feedback, leaders remain unaware of their mistakes, hindering timely apologies and repairs.
Own Missteps Without Defense
- When you recognize a verbal misstep, go directly to the person and acknowledge the fault without defending your intent.
- Apologize sincerely without asking for forgiveness, as forgiveness is a gift the other person may offer in time.