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Edited by Twoscompany, Meta Knight, Sparkle604, Tasha and 7 others

Learning how to accept an apology from a co-worker is an important life skill. Harmonious relationships in the workplace are vital for high employee morale and worker productivity. Accepting and forgiving your co-workers' flaws and weaknesses will improve your workplace relationships and increase your enjoyment on the job. Your graceful acceptance of a co-worker's apology might also increase the chances that you will receive treatment cordial apology in the future. Here are a few steps to assist you in responding to a co-worker's apology.

Edit Steps

  1. 1
    Pay attention to the apology.
    • Listen closely to your co-worker's apology. Focus on what he is saying, rather than on your own grievances. Allow your co-worker to finish his sentences without interruption.
    • Demonstrate respectful body language. Look your co-worker in the eyes. Limit body language that might convey a lack of interest, such as looking away or turning your back.
    • Read an apology letter numerous times. If your co-worker has chosen to apologize in writing, this may indicate fear or a desire to be clearly understood. Read the letter repeatedly to understand the core message, especially if you are angry or preoccupied with your own feelings.
  2. 2
    Examine your own feelings. Determine if your co-worker is sincerely regretful and whether or not she is taking responsibility for the mistake or wrongdoing. Ask yourself if you still feel angry or hurt.
  3. 3
    Discuss any residual feelings of anger or discomfort.
    • Express unresolved issues. To accept your co-worker's apology, you must be able to forgive wrongdoing. Calmly discuss your feelings and allow your co-worker to respond
    • Focus on your own feelings rather than assigning blame. Explain if you are still angry or hurt. Avoid any discussion about your co-worker's character flaws. Focus on facts and feelings only.
  4. 4
    Accept the apology gracefully and sincerely.
    • Tell your co-worker that you accept his apology. If you have gone through the process of examining your feelings and you truly forgive your co-worker, say so. Smile and be sincere. Offer a handshake or a hug depending on the norms of your relationship.
    • Apologize for your own mistakes. If you realize that your actions complicated matters further, apologize for your own wrongdoings. This will help to remedy the situation, decrease your co-worker's embarrassment and repair the relationship.
    • Reply in writing. When a co-worker has apologized in writing, you may reply in writing. It will give you time to choose your words carefully. If you have accepted the apology via a letter or email and have not heard back from your co-worker, confirm that your message was received.
  5. 5
    Forgive your co-worker and move forward in your relationship. After accepting the apology, limit discussions of the events and the negative feelings that transpired. Focus on creating positive experiences with your co-worker in the future.


Edit Tips

  • Try to resolve problems before they spiral out of control.
  • Keep the matter private. Don't involve your other co-workers by asking for input.

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Article Info

Categories: Colleague Interactions

Recent edits by: Madamem, Missnascar85, SmarmySnodsnick

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