People who apologize earn more money!

From PLN

People who apologize earn more money!

by Leslie Dillon, from Leader's Digest October 2007

Recently, online pearl merchant The Pearl Outlet noticed pearls were increasingly given as an apology, usually to a wife or girlfriend. The Pearl Outlet hired pollster Zogby International to find out more.

Zogby’s survey revealed people who are more willing to say ‘I’m sorry’ make more money than people who rarely or never apologize.” Those with incomes of over $100,000 a year were almost “twice as likely to apologize after an argument or mistake as those earning $25,000 or less.”

92% of $100,000+ earners apologized when they believed they were to blame; 89% of those earning between $75,000 and $100,000; 84% of those who make $50,000 to $75,000, 72% of those earning between $35,000 and $50,000 and 76% of people earning between $25,000 and $35,000.
52% of those earning $25,000 or less said they usually apologize when they know they’re at fault.
Even when they believe themselves blameless, 22% of the highest earners say “I’m sorry,” compared to just 13% of those in the lowest income group.

So what does this mean? Saying “I’m sorry” now and then indicates strong people skills. “The link between income and willingness to apologize shows that successful people are willing to learn from their mistakes and are keen on mending troubled relationships.”

Also, “High earners tend to be more secure... They realize when they’re wrong and know it won’t hurt their career much to apologize.” In addition, acknowledging a share of blame is a trait shown by many great leaders “because it tends to build solidarity with the troops.”

(Anne Fisher, “For higher pay, learn to say you’re sorry,” Fortune on CNNMoney.com, Oct. 17, 2007.)

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