Apologize right after making a mistake instead of letting too much time pass.

Be specific about what you’re apologizing for.

Take full responsibility for what you said or did.

Don’t expect automatic forgiveness, especially when you’ve made a big mistake.

Don’t cancel out your apology with a “but” or by giving excuses.

Demonstrate your sincerity by changing your behavior.

Give a sincere and heartfelt apology rather than a half-hearted one.

Accept responsibility for what you did.

Acknowledge how you made them feel.

Say you’re sorry for the specific thing that hurt or upset them.

Don’t make excuses or shift the blame.

Take steps to make sure you don’t make the same mistake twice.