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CONVERSATION-REPAIR5 MIN READ

Own the Dismissal Before You Explain

Choose a first repair move that acknowledges harm before explaining context.

Sprint review, 10:17 a.m. Luis raised the release risk and Maya cut him off. Maya realizes she publicly shut down Luis right before the VP asked about the same risk. What should she do first? Say, 'Luis, I cut off your QA point. That was on me. Please take the floor for the risk you were naming.' Strong. It acknowledges the observable harm, accepts responsibility, and offers immediate repair by returning airtime and status. Say, 'I was only trying to keep us on time, but go ahead if this is really critical.' Weaker. The explanation comes before ownership and the…

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