You are right. I screwed up. I'm sorry.

Seth posted a very short, but critical lesson about growing a tribe (and more).  The power in this one sentence is awesome:  “You are right.  I screwed up.  I’m sorry.”

However, here’s the key to applying it wisely:

Use this apology when the OTHER party believes it’s true, NOT just when you believe it’s true.  We have an amazing way of justifying our actions such that we believe “it” was someone else’s fault.  But, that doesn’t help much – even if we’re right - does it?

When leading my tribe of customers, I’ve found that using that one statement not only smoothes over a difficult situation, but usually results in a great relationship with the customer.  What more could I ask for?

I’m not suggesting you be fake and use it as a manipulative tool; however, I am suggesting that you use it even if you don’t believe you were in the wrong.  Why?  Because leaders do what’s necessary to lead and maybe you really are wrong. 

By saying you’re sorry, people actually believe you care about them – and the connections resulting from your caring are critical to building (strengthening) relationships necessary for your success – a basic tribe building necessity.

Try it, you might be surprised by the response.

Comments

[Seth Godin]

well said!

[Ed Welch]

Hi Seth,

Thanks for stopping by! I'm glad you enjoyed my thoughts about your post.

[Jim Cecil]

Seth
As usual, great minds do think alike.
See Verne Harnish's comments recieved simultaneously with today's blog:
Verne wrote:
OK, my deepest apologies - I tried something, giving people an option to read my thoughts on the election, which I shouldn't have and I simply ask for your forgiveness.

Obviously, I'm hearing positive comments from those that support my decision. However, I've heard from enough of you that it was a bad idea that I have to concur. This wasn't the right forum. What I care most about is helping growth firms and they seem to survive no matter what the situation so long as they keep their heads about themselves and remain disciplined - I'll stick to my message and find other forums for expressing my political thoughts (it's actually a hobby for me - I served in Washington and learned a great deal from the experience).

Keep on learning and growing,

Verne
The "Growth Guy"

Jim Cecil