Being the bearer of bad news is never easy. Sometimes, delivering unfortunate news is not only difficult for the deliverer but also for the recipient. However, there is no need to feel awkward if you apply these simple steps.
Forbes Communications Council members have shared a few tips on what you should do if you need to break bad news.
Honesty is the best policy
Nishat Jones from Victory Packaging recommends that you should always be upfront and honest about the news. “Do not skirt the topic and try to give the recipient false hope. It is better to let them know the truth and then assure them that you will do everything you can to work with them through the issue.”
Express empathy
Try to understand how the person is going to feel and how they might think about the message you are delivering, says Eric Brown from DataStax. “Anticipate their emotions and thoughts so you can help them — and yourself — move past the bad news and into ideating solutions and next steps together.”
Avoid sugarcoating
PACIFIC’s Allison Escott Alachniewicz says that most people can spot when there is an attempt to overly explain or downplay bad news. “I’ve found it is best to be completely straightforward, short and to the point. Then leave time for questions or clarification.” Allison adds that that does not mean you cannot do a brief set-up or include some reassurances. Although, it is best to break the news as honestly and succinctly as possible, then discuss.
Apply the sandwich technique
Brittany White from Apple Growth Partners states that when breaking bad news, you should start with good news, layer with the difficult message and end with positive realities or a repetition of the first point. “Ensure communication is clear, short and consistent, but include positive messages that make the negative announcement more manageable for the reader.”
Prepare for possible questions
“Do your homework in advance and be prepared to answer any questions that might arise from the news,” says QSR Automations Inc.’s Amber Mullaney. “Most importantly, always be honest and up front. In our fast-paced, tech-driven world, negative news spreads fast, so it’s better to be honest versus allowing the news to manifest into something larger.”
Also see: Creative burnout? Here’s how to recover
