Apologize Like a Celebrity in 5 Easy Steps!

To err is human. I came across this article in One of Toastmaster's magazine.

This gives a clear idea how asking for forgiveness should be done. 

#1 Play the Blame Game

Start by saying how sorry you are. Then shift the focus from your actions to the other person's reactions: "I am sorry that you were offended by what I did or said." Make it sound as if the other person's think-skinned sensibilities, outdated notions of fairness and decency, or failure o understand what you really meant - not your misdeeds - are the real culprits. 

#2 Offer an Excuse
According to Witt, if you can't pass the blame on someone, you can always blame extenuating circumstances. I think this is very applicable in the Philippines, where I live. We have so many options to put the blame on - from corrupt government officials, skyrocketing electricity bills to poor garbage disposal system - we can always point at something that's beyond our control. For instance, I if arrive late at work, I can always blame it on heavy traffic or the slow railway train. Or if I can't finish an article, I'd say I have writer's block.

#3 Use the Passive Voice
The author says that in making apologies, using the passive voice does the trick. Instead of saying "I made mistakes," use "Mistakes were made" or "There was an error of judgment". By saying it this way it moves the offender away from the harsh media glare. 

#4 Be as Silent as a Lamb
The moment we've done something wrong, it's common for us -people with a conscience often do - to apologize right on the spot! But in the world of show business, some celebrities delay as long as possible and some are brazen enough to steer clear of apology. They just wait and see how things play out, hoping people will forget about what they did or someone else will do something even worse. Then they are off the hook!

#5 Hide your Feelings
If you feel remorse, regret or even guilt because of what you've done - people with a conscience often do - make sure no one knows it. Make an apology the way sincere people do.Tell people you are sorry. Accept responsibility. Offer to make amends. Do the whole enchilada! But like some celebrities, read from a script. Speak in a monotone.Avoid eye contact. And never reveal a heartfelt emotion. 

It may be difficult to backpedal your way out of a messy situation, but the art of saying sorry is something we should never deal so lightly. Void of well-crafted PR and choreographed apologies and other theatrics, I think we should use appropriate words and actions to make our true intentions known.

Just like what Witt said, "You may not win an Oscar for your performance, but you'll receive something far more important: Forgiveness."