I’m the supervisor of a small group. I generally work with non-management workers outdoors my group, certainly one of whom is an exceedingly succesful, however idiosyncratic, particular person, “Karl.” He’s very centered and can go far above and past to make it possible for every part is evident, organized, and precisely proper. That is nice if that’s what you need, and is ideal for his main work tasks (which regularly contain planning and executing duties that might be unsafe if completed improperly), however he generally is a bit sluggish in getting issues finalized and his depth for his work generally is a bit off-putting generally.
Just a few days in the past, I used to be discussing some work with “Invoice,” who managers Karl’s supervisor, in a gathering in his workplace. I used to be telling Invoice what an incredible job that Karl had completed on a undertaking, and the way Karl’s thoroughness had led to a great end result. I additionally commented that it took longer than anticipated, which induced Invoice to smile and snicker a bit, knowingly, since he is aware of Karl properly.
I then did one thing silly and unprofessional: In parting, I made a joking remark about not anticipating speedy work from Karl (one thing like, “Nicely, Karl’s who you go to once you need thorough, however positively not once you need quick!”). I then circled to depart and noticed Karl close by, chatting with the admin. Karl regarded up at me, regarded away, and left. I wasn’t certain if he had heard me, however he has slightly clearly dodged me within the corridor a number of instances since. My remark appeared pretty light to me on the time, however from Karl’s perspective, I can see why it may need been upsetting.
Previous to this, I had a great working relationship with Karl, and I loved speaking to him. I really feel horrible that I offended him with my inconsiderate, silly joke.
I want to attempt to restore the connection, apologize to him, and categorical that I admire his work enormously. (Which I do!) Ought to I attempt a direct method, knocking on his workplace door and apologizing in particular person? Ought to I do one thing much less direct, like sending an e-mail to him, copying his supervisor and expressing my appreciation for his wonderful work on the undertaking in query? (Such a letter is justified, no matter my contrition.) Or ought to I simply let it drop?
I reply this query over at Inc. right now, the place I’m revisiting letters which have been buried within the archives right here from years in the past (and generally updating/increasing my solutions to them). You can learn it right here.