Correcting issues on your project happens much more easily if you have positive connections with the people you're wanting to correct.

There are two types of connection that would benefit your ability to issue corrections to people:

1. General connection - Try to build an overall positive relationship with them. Get to know them. Express appreciation or respect for positive things they bring to the project, such as their expertise, their enthusiasm, their resourcefulness, or their ability to connect with others. Find moments where you can interact about whatever in a natural, unforced, relaxed manner. Give them things without expecting anything in return. The more you do this, the more positive sentiment and goodwill you build up between you two. This relational foundation will make it easier to issue a correction because you two already have a positive connection.

2. Connection in the moment - Either before or during the conversation where you issue the correction, also find ways to connect with them. Acknowledge how they are feeling or may be feeling. Give them the opportunity to tell you their perspective on what happened, and truly listen to them. Let them know that you want the best for them. React non-judgmentally to whatever they may say. The more you can help them feel that you are connected to them in the moment, the more you will help de-escalate their emotions and be able to receive the correction in a way that will be productive.

You might think that establishing connections is wasting valuable time that you could spend moving the project forward. However, the reality is that taking the time to establish connections results in greater speed during one of the key times you need it most: when something has gone wrong and needs to be put back on track.