How to deal with any error using the three "P" method

Even the coolest professionals make mistakes at some point. Mistakes can be minor or serious, but they cannot be avoided. In fact, this does not need to be done.

The secret of success is not to dodge mistakes with all your might, but to learn how to immediately apologize for them and quickly get back on your feet after a fall. This requires not only the pacification of pride, but also the ability to make a really good apology.

There are many ways to develop this skill. The three-P method is one of them. This simple algorithm will allow you to fill in the phrases on duty with meaningful content, correct the situation in practice, not in words, and maintain normal relations. To do this, you need to take the following steps.

1. Admit a mistake

Don't beat around the bush. It is important to immediately point out exactly what you did wrong and take full responsibility for what happened without unnecessary maneuvers.

Instead of saying general phrases, such as "I'm sorry if something went wrong" or "I'm sorry that my words offended you," use more honest and specific wording. For example:

• "It's my fault that the report was ready at the last moment. I understand that due to my mistake, the schedule of the other employees was lost, and I regret it."
• "I shouldn't have criticized your work in public. I'm sorry, please, that my words have made you look bad."

The point is to discard the unnecessary and get straight to the point.

2. Understand the impact

Think about how your mistake has affected the people around you, and make it clear to them that you are aware of it. Talk not only about what happened, but also about what emotions the current situation causes.

Try to put yourself in the other person's shoes and figure out what emotional damage your words or actions could have caused. Do not downplay their influence and instead of dismissing the situation with the words "Just nonsense, it's okay," speak frankly. For example:

• "I know that because of my delay with the report, you had to worry and spend more working time as a result. I'm really sorry."
• "Now I understand what my words hurt you and made you look bad. I'm sorry it didn't occur to me earlier. I'm really ashamed."

Try to feel other people's emotions and explain to them that you understand why they are upset.

3. To cover the damage

At this stage, you are not apologizing, but showing that you are serious about improving the situation, and talking about what you are going to do to fix everything. At the same time, it is necessary to avoid vague communications and formulate thoughts specifically. For example:

• "I will review the priority of my tasks and rearrange the schedule so that I can submit the next report in advance and not let you down anymore."
• "From now on, if I notice flaws in your work, I will discuss them with you personally, and not in front of everyone."

Such clear commitments show other people that your apologies are not just polite words, but the result of the lesson you learned from the situation.