Communicating bad news is usually not easy.  Matter of fact, it never is.  But, it is a imperative to be able to communicate bad news to your stakeholders without trying to paint an unrealistic rosy picture.  Through communicating bad news with honesty and sincerity, you and your team can grow and learn from your mistakes or less than stellar results.

Here are some tips on how to communicate and explain bad news well.

1.) Stick with the facts

Focus on facts and reliable data rather than opinions, emotions, or finger pointing.  Otherwise, circular logic and miscommunication can be the result.

2.) Take responsibility when appropriate

It takes a good deal of self-confidence and character to admit when you make a mistake.  But, respect and trustworthiness can be solidified by accepting accountability when you are the one responsible for the mistake.

3.) Communicate solutions, not just problems

Now that you know what went wrong, how will it be prevented in the future?  How can you learn from this and use that knowledge to move forward?