Over apologizing.
Do you over apologize? How many times have you said "I'm sorry" today?
Apologizing too much can erode the confidence that others have in you.
“You may think you’re displaying yourself as a nice and caring person, but you’re actually sending the message that you lack confidence and are ineffective.”
When and how to NOT say "I'm sorry"
Do not apologize for trivial errors like spelling or forgetting to share your screen on a video call.
Instead of "sorry", say "thank you for catching that" and move forward with the needed action
Refrain from saying "I apologize for the late response" in any email.
Instead, jump into the email content immediately with no apology
Try using other words than "I'm sorry".
Can't (or don't want to) go to an event, say "Unfortunately I cannot make it".
Accidentally interrupt someone, say "excuse me" or "go ahead"
If someone has to follow up with you, do not apologize but simply say "Yes, I received your email. Let's discuss in today's meeting."
When and how to say "I'm sorry"
Apologize only when you have done something majorly wrong or made a big enough error that you need to alert others.
Give an immediate action for the correction to the mistake made.
Example: I need to inform you that I used incorrect information for the report sent today; instead of March data, I used February data. I apologize for this. I am making the corrections now and will send the new report in 30 minutes.
You will feel more confident and be perceived as confident when you don't over apologize.
