Apology Email to Colleague
While working under the same roof, for the same boss, and facing somewhat similar challenges and stresses, it is understandable to develop some grudges with a colleague or do something to offend him/her. Meeting the same people every single day, and competing with them on a regular basis, greatly increases the chances of an argument eruption or a clash of egos. While arguing or even fighting is unavoidable, it is your moral and ethical obligation to apologize to your colleague if you are at fault. An apology email is the best alternative to the sometimes embarrassing face-to-face interaction after a bitter spat.
In the first paragraph of your apology email to your colleague, tell the person of interest that you have realized your mistake and deeply regret it. In the second paragraph, try to explain your position and why you did or said whatever it was that you did or say. In the final paragraph, convince him/her that you are indeed sorry and that you will make sure not to repeat your mistake again.
Instructions
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Sample of an Apology Email to a Colleague
To: nathanbilson@yahoo.com
Dear Nathan,
I sincerely apologise for my sudden outburst yesterday. I know it was highly inappropriate of me to lose my temper and shout at you like that.
I have always respected you from the core of my heart. You were the one who helped me settle in what was a completely new atmosphere for me. This is my first job and therefore my first experience of an office environment. It was you who made sure I got used to this environment and atmosphere in no time. You were always there when I needed a good advice or when I was stuck somewhere. Despite everything that you have done for me, I was so rude to you and it kills me from inside. The truth is that I have been under a lot of stress due to additional work load, but still it is no excuse.
I once again regret yesterday’s incident and would like nothing more than an opportunity to make up for my behaviour. I am sorry and promise you that such a thing will never happen again.
Regards,
Jeff Nelson
jeffnelson@yahoo.com -
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Template of an Apology Email to a Colleague
To: [Recipient’s Email Address]
Dear [Name],
I apologise for making fun of you in front of the entire office yesterday. I realise that what I did was immature and inconsiderate.
You know how everyone thinks of me as the office clown. I simply try to live up to that image and am always on a lookout for opportunity to make people laugh. When I heard your stomach making funny noises, I took it as a chance to make everyone around us laugh. I never intended to humiliate you, but I now realise that maybe that was exactly what I ended up doing.
You are an extremely nice person and I have a lot of respect for you and I feel really ashamed of my actions. I know I hurt you. Please forgive me. I promise I will repeat such a thing again.
Regards,
[Sender’s Name]
[Sender’s Email Address]
