#CareerCounsel: Mistakes happen

It can be so easy to let a mistake in your daily routine throw you off course massively. Be it big or small, you’ll immediately feel stressed about it. How did I let that happen? What will my boss think? Everyone will think I’m incapable! These are all natural feelings during a panic.

After that five minute stress, just breathe and analyse the situation. The main thing you have to do is take ownership like a true champion. #CareerCounsel can take you through the panic with a few simple pointers.

How to approach and resolve work mistakes

• Can it be resolved immediately? – Before you panic and run off for urgent assistance, see if it can be instantly retracted. Can you resolve this yourself? Work through the solutions before you involve someone who might be busy with their own work. If you can do this, fix the problem and then tell your manager or colleagues. It’s always good to be honest, and your problem solving will demonstrate great skills.
• Accept responsibility – Don’t leap to conclusions about how it isn’t your fault, or dream up quick excuses. Just accept that you have made an error and be more concerned about fixing it rather than passing the blame to someone or something.
• Tell your manager – If you do need assistance in rectifying something, your manager should be the first person you approach. Everyone makes mistakes, but some people are harder to convince with a simple “it won’t happen again.” So, bring forward the solutions you think will work or ones you did try. A simple tweak from someone else could be the answer to resolving the issue. At least this way, you were proactive in problem solving and didn’t rely solely on someone else to fix it for you. Then explain to your manager the steps you will take to ensure a similar mistake will be avoided in the future. Knowing WHY you made an error is always the best place to start.
• Learn from your mistakes – Go forward and accept that mistakes are made. Do not panic yourself, or become disillusioned with your routine. Every day, you should strive to do better and progress your skills. Believe it or not, mistakes can spearhead this more than anything else. When you know how to resolve tricky situations, you can use this to build your problem solving skills.

It’s not the mistake, it’s your reaction

That’s right! Your reaction to fixing an issue is what will be scrutinised the most; which is why you should follow the steps above to ensure you are recognised for what you did right, not what you did wrong!

Keep up to date with all our #CareerCounsel offerings. You won't regret it! You can also read some of these great posts...

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