If you’ve ever had to deliver bad news – whether it be to clients, shareholders, staff or colleagues, it can be a daunting task. Here are some pointers which will help you get through the delivery with much less drama

1. Avoid using the word “you” at all costs – it can sound like an accusation. Instead, use passive language to keep things on an even keel.

Example: Instead of “You never re-ordered stock on time”, try “Unfortunately, stock was rarely re-ordered on time”

2. Don’t hide any nasty results – rather, present them in a context of good outcomes achieved.

Example: “Despite sales being down in the Southern region, sales overall have been up.”

3. Vocab – if there was ever a time to sound sophisticated and articulate – this is it!

Instead of: “We had a really bad quarter”,

I’d go for: “Last quarter’s results could have been better.”

4. Don’t allow yourself to get drawn into poisonous slanging matches. Stick to your guns, be respectful and never undermine fellow employees, clients or superiors.
5. Keep emotion out of it – stay focused on reporting the facts. Recriminations are pointless and a potential minefield.
6. Humility – this is essential if you want to keep your audience on-side.

Example: “We have no choice but to slash budget and fire half of our employees.”

I’d choose: “The situation dictates that we significantly reduce our budget. Unfortunately, this will mean having to let go of a number of our employees. However, we will give them the maximum support possible, and will work with the remaining employees to improve efficiency.”

7. Preparation is all for a task like this, so it’s crucial to role-play it in advance. Ask a trusted colleague or friend to play the audience – and to give you a hard time! The more you role-play it, the more confident you’ll feel when it comes to the actual presentation.

With these points in mind, you’ll be able to navigate a tough situation with confidence and poise – and gain some points for yourself in the process.