Receiving bad news is no fun. Giving it isn't either.
Whichever end you're on, here are three tips to better deliver and handle bad news:
Tell early and often. Get surprises out there as soon as possible. If you're not going to make your numbers, your boss can manage the situation better in June than she can in October.
Remember the past. It's likely you have some past experience you can draw from. Let this help you prepare mentally, but be humble — don't assume you know exactly what this bad news will bring.
Don't shoot the messenger. If you want people to be open and honest with you, don't blame the person delivering the bad news. Thank them for sharing and reward their courage to speak up in difficult times.
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