Being an employee isn’t always easy. The constant pressure to improve your performance can be stressful, and even minor mistakes can be the difference between getting a promotion or not. That’s why it’s so important to learn how to correct workplace errors effectively, without losing your job in the process. With the right strategy, you can turn small errors into learning opportunities and keep your career on track. Here are three ways to correct workplace errors safely and keep your job intact in the process!
1) Write an Error Log
An error log is a simple spreadsheet that you can use to keep track of all of your workplace errors. You can use one on your computer or you can use a paper-based approach, where you jot down notes in a notebook when an error occurs. It doesn’t matter how you do it, as long as you take note of every single error so that you have something to refer back to later. When creating an error log, make sure that it includes at least these three columns
2) Always Double-Check
In any job, you’re bound to make some errors—even if you know what you’re doing. To avoid costly mistakes (and possibly lose your job), it pays to constantly check your work. Before finishing up a project, go back through it with a fine-tooth comb. Read over all of your instructions carefully, make sure you haven’t made any typos, and be sure that every single element is exactly how it should be.
3) Don’t Hide Your Mistakes
When things go wrong at work, it’s easy to make excuses or try to cover up your errors. What you need to understand is that lying or keeping quiet won’t solve anything. In fact, taking responsibility for your mistakes is vital if you want your career—and your life—to move forward in a positive direction. Take a breath, admit what happened and learn from it. Acknowledging your error will put you on good terms with everyone involved—not just those who were affected directly by it.
