Have you ever apologized at work for something you’ve done wrong? No? Me neither. Mostly because I work for myself and I never make mistakes. If I do, I sure the heck won’t admit it and I’ll never apologize for them, especially to myself.

That would just be weird.

Speaking of weird, here’s one from the experts of workplace offenses over at CNBC.

We all make mistakes, especially at work. If you’ve done a task incorrectly or you’ve accidentally offended someone, saying “I’m sorry” wouldn’t be the wrong response, necessarily, but it wouldn’t be the strongest response, either. 

“When you do something wrong, the reply doesn’t have to be ‘I’m sorry,’” Lindo says. “You can speak to the action you’ll do to investigate or resolve the problem.”

Other phrases can better show that you’re ready to do what it takes to make the situation right. Those can include:

• “Thank you for the feedback”
• “I take full responsibility”
• “I appreciate your bringing that to my attention — how can I improve?”

A sincere apology isn’t bad, Lindo notes — but it’s ideal to only say “I’m sorry” when you truly mean it to ensure it comes across as genuine.

Oh, brother. Where do I even start here?

First of all, “Thank you for your feedback” just sounds condescending and will most likely further offend your boss or colleagues. No one will believe you’re being sincere if they’ve worked with you for more than five minutes. I certainly wouldn’t believe you and I don’t even know you!

Seriously, try saying it in the mirror convincingly.

See what I mean? So if we can’t trust the first piece of advice this so-called expert offers, then how can we put our faith in anything else she says?

Honestly, I think these “experts” just like to hear themselves talk. If they’re even real. I wouldn’t put it past CNBC to just make this stuff up to get clicks.

Now I regret giving them a click!

Anyway, my advice to you is to follow my lead and never admit you’ve made a mistake and definitely don’t apologize for it. Let someone else take the blame and do all the apologizing.

Just don’t be surprised when they get a promotion and a raise because as we all know, bosses love suck ups!