Using the reactions from the participants, the researchers were able to pinpoint six 'components' that helped it hit the mark. Apologies really do work, but you should make sure you hit as many of the six key components as possible, explained Roy Lewicki, the lead author of the study.

So, if you need to get out of a bit of hot water — here's how to do it.

1. Expression of regret
First off, understand that something has gone a bit wrong and show that you're unhappy about it.

2. Explaining what went wrong
As well as realising that something's gone bad, you need to explain precisely what it was.

3. Taking responsibility
One of the harder parts is making sure you accept the responsibility for what happened — and making sure the person knows that.

4. Declaration of repentance
This is basically the 'I'm sorry' part of the process.

5. Offer of repair
This is one of the most important parts of it all. One concern about apologies is that talk is cheap. But by saying, 'I'll fix what is wrong,' you're committing to take action to undo the damage, said Lewicki.

6. Request for forgiveness
Hopefully, if all has gone as planned then you won't need this part — they'll already have forgiven you and you can start making amends.

Source: Times of India

BDST: 1920 HRS, APR- 16, 2016
Edited by:  Sharmina Islam, Lifestyle Editor