Don’t Apologize When Asking for Something You Need
You know the script. You have a friend who has some of your belongings, or who has money. Weeks passed. You finally decide to bring this up, and the first thing you say is, “Hi, I’m sorry, but …” Next time, skip the apology.
As Business Blog Inc. points out, we tend to feel a little guilty when we ask for what we owe. Maybe we don’t want to inconvenience someone, or maybe some of us lack confrontational skills. In any case, if you are asking for a debt or even what you think you deserve, an apology immediately weakens your position:
You are setting a precedent for future interactions and how your boss, client, or business person is likely to think of you. Do you want this to be the person who apologizes for everything, asks permission and tries not to disturb? Or as a person who values their achievements, knows your abilities and value? What is most likely to bring you your next promotion, plum assignment, or business deal?
Excessive apologies in general are not great. Unless you have a legitimate reason to regret something, all you need to do is remind the person you are talking to that you are feeling bad. However, when it comes to the things you deserve or owe you, an apology is just getting in your way.
5 Reasons To Stop Apologizing And Asking For What You Deserve | Inc.