Career Learning 101

I got through a confrontation today. I was told that I was going behind someone’s back by reporting that they were holding up their section of the project. I was told that I was lying, but I said the facts as they stood to me. She asked for my apology, but I said “not yet”, not until it was proven that there were no issues with what she had written down.

After the workshop, it was clear that there was a lot more work that needed to be done to get the requirements into some form of specifications. Even she said so. So at that point, I felt it was a good time to apologise, for giving the impression that I was going behind her back.

The aim here is to get things done. Not backing down in the morning was a good move, as she’s the type of person who would get focussed when challenged. However, it’s always a good move to apologise, it smoothes the way for more positive interactions.

I’m proud of myself for being strong in that situation. Always stay professional.

Damn! two cheap calls already:

I'm proud of you babe! That was one ballsy, smart and very effective move. See how exciting confrontation can be?! :)
beckster (link) - 06 February '07 - 19:14

People don't apologise enough these days.

The key is making sure you are specific about what it is you are apologising for. Scope.

I've probably gone a little too far in the direction of apologising. Over here, it often becomes a competition to see who can apologise and show the most humility. Except with your manager. They tell you you're doing something the "wrong" way, and then teach you how to do something, which is always the most inefficient way possible. So you just say "yep, understood!" and then go back to doing it your own way, taking more care this time not to get caught. Repeat as necessary.

RC
randomcow (email) (link) - 16 February '07 - 10:17