Reprinted from: LeanIn.org
By: Stephanie Taylor Christensen
(This is the eighth segment in a ten part series from LeanIn.org)
Lesson #8: You covered up a mistake when you should have come clean.
Even the most seasoned professionals sometimes make a misstep—and not recognizing and being honest about this can telegraph immaturity and insecurity.
Shoving something under the rug may leave you feeling anxious—and you’ll have a lot more explaining to do if and when your boss finds out.
The Silver Lining Lesson: Instead of trying to wish away an error, when you do finally fess up, Randall recommends making no excuses and placing no blame.
Simply let the boss know that you have learned from the experience, and suggest what you would do differently the next time.
She also advises asking your boss two questions to smooth over any rough waters: “How can I make this right?” and “What can I do to minimize the damage?”
