The Do's and Don'ts of Delivering Disappointing News
If you have to burst someone's bubble, follow these tips.
You’re not gonna enjoy this column. I couldn’t get my head around the subject until the last minute. Then, people wouldn’t call me back. Also, my computer’s been acting weird lately. And the goldfish died. Everything’s a disaster. But what do you care, right?
What you’ve just read is a horrible way to deliver disappointing news. It goes against each of the Principles of Bursting People’s Bubbles, which are:
Don’t disappoint immediately. Even if you’re sure your answer won’t change. Hear the other person out. This gives you time to compose yourself, and it shows respect.
Don’t hedge. Don’t be vague. Don’t make excuses. Don’t say, “I’m not sure how we’re gonna be able to get where you want this to go,” or “So, you know,
