How to Deliver Bad News

1.) Be Prepared

• Do not ‘wing it’.
• Rehearse what you are going to say
• Anticipate questions and prepare answers
• Think carefully about the location
• Know the background and details

2.) Be Your Own Cheerleader

• Know the circumstances
• Remember reason or rationale
• Be honest to yourself about why
• Review any facts or evidence

3.) With Respect & Dignity

• Set the right tone
• Give them time to digest the news
• Deliver in the most connected way
• Be practical, avoid emotional responses
• Put yourself in their shoes

4.) Do Not Procrastinate

• News does not get easier to deliver
• You lose credibility & reliability
• You will psych yourself out
• You set yourself up to take the fall