I had a sinking feeling when the radio interview was over. I’m always critical of my performance, but this time something didn’t feel right.
Radio interviews are becoming common and I didn’t want to live with the story I was making up in my head.
Email:
I sent the show’s host an email.
“… I feel like I didn’t move the conversation along well. But, before I went too far, I wonder if you have any feedback…”
Reply:
“…I did a poor job of leading today’s interview…Will you forgive me?!.!”
Shock:
The words, “Will you forgive me,” get stuck somewhere between the heart and the head. Just the thought of saying, “Will you forgive me,” makes me think of reasons I don’t need to say it.
I’m filled with respect for a person with the courage and integrity to use the four hardest words I can think of.
My reply:
I thought the host did a fine job.
I was ready to fire off a quick email that said, no big deal. But those four words, at the end of his email, called for a better response.
Ultimately, I included this in my reply:
“I did not take offense, but, when someone asks for forgiveness, I feel it’s important to extend it. You’re forgiven. I find forgiveness, both in the asking and in the giving, a humbling thing.”
Asking forgiveness:
- Is taking responsibility for your side of a failure or offense, without excusing or accusing another.
- Invites improvement next time.
- Isn’t saying, “I’m sorry.” “I’m sorry,” is a pathetic substitute for, “Will you forgive me.”
- Feels vulnerable, but protecting your status diminishes others.
- Inspires a culture of integrity. We see through people who pretend to have it all together.
Leaders who forgive say, “Let’s start again.”
What concerns you about asking for forgiveness?
**Next radio interview is Thursday, 4/17 on WJOB1230 (Chicago area) at 6:00 p.m. EDT. (Join me. It streams on the Internet.)