We all make mistakes and you can build connections if you show understanding at work.
You appreciate understanding from your colleagues when you make mistakes.
They will appreciate the same respect from you.
Listen to today’s episode to learn vocabulary for expressing compassion in the workplace.
Mistakes at work
Lindsay asks Aubrey if she has made any mistakes recently.
Aubrey responds that she has made mistakes and that it happens to the best of us.
Lindsay adds that she makes both small and big mistakes.
It’s only human to make some blunders.
It is great to connect about this because everyone makes mistakes.
Today’s episode is part two of a three part series.
Don’t miss Part 1
Part one of this series is on the All Ears English podcast.
It was episode AEE 2271: Happen To or Happen With? How to Know the Difference.
Here on The Business English Podcast, Lindsay and Aubrey talk about business English phrases with the word ‘happen.’
You can use these at work to show compassion and grace for mistakes.
Part 3 will be on the IELTS Energy podcast, so make sure to subscribe to all our podcasts.
Showing understanding
Whether you’ve made a mistake or had misfortune, it’s nice to have a coworker show understanding.
You also want to show this support for your colleagues.
You don’t want to miss today’s tips because this is a good way to connect and build relationships.
Here are four phrases that are perfect responses after someone apologized, made a mistake, or encountered misfortune.
You’ll also learn when these responses are not appropriate to say in the business world.
#1: Happens to the best of us
This is a good response to use when someone apologizes for a mistake they’ve made.
You can also use this when someone shares something embarrassing.
Example:
- I’m sorry to hear you lost that account. Happens to the best of us!
- I heard you were out sick last week. Sorry to hear it – happens to the best of us!
Mini roleplay
Lindsay: I’m sorry I forgot your birthday!
Aubrey: No worries. Happens to the best of us.
#2: It happens
This can also be used after an apology, just like the phrase ‘happens to the best of us.’
It’s just a variation of it and has a more casual tone.
You should note that these can be dismissive so you shouldn’t say them in response to serious situations like if a loved one died.
Example:
- My new coworker called me the wrong name, but you know what, it happens!
Mini roleplay
Aubrey: I’m sorry you didn’t get the promotion you were hoping for.
Lindsay: Not a problem. It happens.
#3: These things happen / this stuff happens
This is a good way to lightly say that something is understandable.
It means it isn’t a big deal.
It also shows that you can relate because something similar happened to you.
Example:
- If an IT person lets you know it’ll be a few hours before the internet is back up: “Thanks for letting me know. These things happen!”
#4: Accidents happen
Small accidents are understandable and you can show compassion and patience with this phrase.
It is a great way to acknowledge that something wasn’t done on purpose.
Example:
- If someone spills a drink on you: “Don’t sweat it! Accidents happen!”
Mini roleplay
Aubrey: I think I accidentally took your coffee. I’m so sorry!
Lindsay: No big deal. Accidents happen.
Compassion and connection at work
There are many ways to connect at work.
You can build a connection when you make mistakes.
When someone makes an error that’s not too serious, you should avoid making them feel worse.
You can lighten the mood by using the vocabulary shared by Lindsay and Aubrey.
Context is key!
There are definitely situations when you shouldn’t use today’s phrases.
These imply that a situation is not serious and is not a big deal.
They could downplay a serious situation.
If someone has work performance issues or is constantly late, don’t use these phrases.
You wouldn’t want to imply that those issues are not a big deal.
If you’re in a leadership position, missing a meeting or making a mistake that has dire consequences shouldn’t be shrugged off.
Roleplay
Here is a quick roleplay from Lindsay and Aubrey using the vocabulary shared in today’s episode.
This can help you better understand how these are used in a normal conversation in the workplace.
In this scenario, Lindsay and Aubrey are colleagues.
Aubrey: Bad news. I can’t find the keys to the office. I’ll have a new set made.
Lindsay: Oh no! These things happen. We may need to change the locks, though.
Aubrey: I’m very sorry! I looked everywhere!
Lindsay: It happens. Let me know if you are able to find them.
Takeaway
Today’s phrases are great for showing understanding if someone is apologizing or going through hardship.
Don’t miss an opportunity to connect and build a relationship in English with someone at work.
It’s great to work with people you bond with and know that they’ll be compassionate towards you in exchange.
Use the vocabulary you’ve learned today to show you’re understanding of minor mishaps.
Have you ever connected with a work colleague over a mistake?
We’d love to hear your stories in the comment section below.
