What's the worst mistake you've ever made at work?

Question

....and how did you bounce back? I have a VERY hard time bouncing back after I make a mistake at work. It tends to haunt me and I dwell and dwell, even though I know that's not a productive use of time. How do you rebound after you screw something up?

Anonymous · Answer

In my earlier days, I responded to an email in anger. Luckily they did not reprimand me for it and instead spoke with me about it. But I learned that one should NEVER do that.

Always just take a 5 minute breather or get fresh air before responding.

BeckyB_25 · Answer

Same girl. Same. My best advice is to look the issue in the face, address it immediately, and move on. The biggest mistake I made at work happened a few years ago. I was leading a large project call and someone dialed into the WebEx using the name 'bingbing.' My coworkers were always messing with me, so I made a comment right out of the gate like, 'hahaha, nice that someone is naming themselves bling-bling for the day.' Except, no. Bingbing is a legitimate Chinese name and she totally called me out! I thought I was going to D-I-E on the spot. After the call dropped, I immediately called her and her manager, who were both attending, and apologized immediately for being completely insensitive and frankly, accidentally racist. Like, even explaining it now makes me want to crawl under a desk! At any rate, they were both SUPER gracious about it, which helped me to move on quicker than I ever would have otherwise. Owning up to your mistakes, no matter how uncomfortable it feels in your mind, is 90% of the battle. And people really, sincerely, appreciate when others step up and own it. Whatever happened, you will absolutely move on, and learn so much about yourself in the process! I'm here to tell the story, and you will be, too!

Jemia Williams · Answer

Well it depends on the screw up honestly. Some things you cannot bounce back from and they will weigh on you and even your employer. So I think the way you are going to get a better response is if you are a little vulnerable with us and explain the situation.

Six Figure Salary Coach · Answer

May I ask what the mistake was?

What's the worst mistake you've ever made at work?

You're invited.

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