Chances are, at some point in your life, you will have to deal with a fiasco. It may not have been of your making, but you will nonetheless have to deal with it.
As Christians, we should always uphold God’s principles while seeking an amicable resolution.
Here are two “how to” tips, and three “what to do” tips that will help deal with most fiascoes that come your way.
How To
1) Deal with the situation immediately. Fiascoes are like an infection, the longer you take to deal with it the worse the infection gets. Don’t rush into the situation without deliberation, but once you’ve determined what needs to be done, act promptly.
The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor. (Proverbs 12:24)
“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. (Ephesians 4:26)
2) Purposefully engage the injured party. Active listening is critical. You must listen to the injured party without making judgment or excuses, and certainly, don’t interrupt to defend yourself! Additionally, you may need to draw the injured party out to make sure you’ve got all the facts.
Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. (Hebrews 12:14)
What To Do
1) Accept responsibility. Regardless of the cause of the problem take personal responsibility. Making excuses and blaming others makes it seem like you are trying to avoid responsibility for the fiasco.
He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy. (Proverbs 28:13)
2) Be honest and express your emotions. If you are upset or angry about the situation, don’t be afraid to say so. Be honest in the way you express yourself, but avoid making it sound like you feel sorry for yourself!
Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. (Ephesians 4:25-26)
3) Describe what you are doing about the situation. Let the injured party know what you plan on doing to resolve the situation, and by when. Be as specific as you can, but avoid making promises you can’t keep. It is better to do more than promised or faster, break a promise and lose trust in the relationship.
The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them. (Proverbs 11:3)
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver. (Proverbs 25:11)
Join the Conversation!
As always questions and comments are welcome. What fiascoes have you dealt with in your business life? Are there any additional tips you would suggest for handling a fiasco?
Category: Skills | Communications Skills
