If you are a person who tends to blow simple mistakes out of proportion, just show yourself some compassion after bungling a first impression. Maybe it will be helpful to repeat this phrase silently in your head right after: “You’re only human. You’re only human. "
A brief self-deprecating comment reveals that you don’t take yourself too seriously. Just be sure not to refocus the lens and spend the whole time putting yourself down for the benefit of impressing others. [2] X Research source
There are several ways to expertly change the subject in a conversation. In this case, returning to an earlier topic would probably be sufficient. Whatever the topic was prior to your failed joke, bring everyone back around. Say something like “So, you were telling me about your parents. . . " or “I can’t believe the company has made such significant returns this year. That’s great!”
Calmly acknowledge the gaffe by saying something like “That was just my opinion. Forgive me for being short-sighted. " Then, make a sincere plea to understand the person better. “Would you mind sharing your opinion of X?”
A quick apology can sound like “Geez, I’m sorry to have offended you. My knowledge on this topic appears to be limited. Can you explain it to me so that I can see it from your point-of-view?” Taking this route gets the apology out of the way, but also allows the person to share their expertise - and allows them to see you as a human that made a simple mistake but who can own up to it.
Space may not always be possible, particularly during presentations or job interviews. During such occasions, it’s important to move forward and change the subject to something less tense. Ask the person a question about the position you are applying for, or give them the opportunity to explain a concept to you.
If your shyness is being received as rudeness, make an effort to smile more, start a conversation, and ask the other person questions. This can happen without any indicator to them that you are making a pivot. They will assume they judged you too quickly and assimilate these new interactions into their impression of you. On the contrary, if you have a tendency to come off as over-bearing and you ruffle someone’s feathers, quickly adjust your behavior as needed. You might try to sit back and not respond to every statement made, but rather nod your head, smile, and listen more. This also works for interruptions, which can be seen as offensive in some settings. Acknowledge the misstep by saying “My apologies for the interruption. " and ensure that your subsequent behavior is characterized by taking turns and listening until the other speak has finished.
Instead, highlight the talents that you do have. If you’re highly organized, you can volunteer to put together the information packets for the presentation or research complicated concepts that may need explaining. You won’t be the focus of the presentation by doing this, but you will still be acknowledged for your organizational skills, or for your in-depth knowledge when someone poses a complex question.
Ask the person for a book recommendation or to explain a certain concept. Research shows people are much more likely to help those who ask for help. [7] X Research source What’s more, when you ask advice from a person with whom you have bad footing, you get the chance to not only understand them better, but to make them feel more competent. The person will be flattered by your request and may even change their opinion of you.
