ReThinking The secrets of a great apology
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May 27, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Beth Polin, a management professor specializing in apologies, and Mark Gallagher, an executive with a Formula One background, share fascinating insights on the art of apology. They delve into the complex elements that make an apology effective, highlighting the five R's: regret, rationale, responsibility, repentance, and repair. The duo also explores real-world examples from pre-K classrooms to high-stakes pit stops, revealing how sincere apologies can mend relationships and foster accountability in both personal and professional realms.
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Drive-by Apology in Preschool
- Kath Konecky described a child's "drive-by apology" after accidentally destroying a pretend croissant shop in preschool.
- The child said sorry while running away, showing it was more a rote response than a true apology.
Five Key Components of Apology
- Beth Polin identifies five key components for effective apologies: regret, rationale, responsibility, repentance, and repair.
- Responsibility is the most crucial, signaling accountability and control.
Forgiveness As Invitation
- Asking for forgiveness in apologies invites the other person to participate in repairing trust, acknowledging that acceptance is their choice.
- Forgiveness requests should be invitations, not demands, keeping trust repair bilateral.