When someone says “I’m sorry” too often

It’s Friday, let’s keep this short.

Most people overuse apologies, to the point where they’ve become meaningless.

An apology is appropriate when you have made a mistake that hurt someone, not when you bump into someone, or interrupt, or when something bad happened to someone that you had no role in.

Here’s an opener that can help you address a repeat offender.

Let’s say an employee is consistently late, and it’s starting to irritate you. They keep apologizing but don’t change their behavior.

Rather than rip into them or make a timid request, you can start with asking, “Is everything okay?”

This signals that their behavior has you concerned for them, making them more receptive to your firm request.

Have a good weekend.