Ending Soon! Save 33% on All Access

A Manager's Guide to Delivering Bad News (Infographic) If you have the right approach, breaking bad news doesn't have to be so daunting.

By Rose Leadem

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Hinterhaus Productions | Getty Images

From giving someone negative feedback to letting an employee go -- whether you like it or not, as a business manager, you're going to be the bearer of bad news at some point. Luckily, if you teach yourself the correct way to deliver bad news, it won't be so tough.

Related: 6 Tips for Hearing Tough Feedback

To start, outline the five Ws: who, what, where, when and why. These key components will help you successfully and professionally deliver bad news. The "who" of the five Ws is about establishing your role: take responsibility for the bad news and deliver it yourself.

Next, figure out exactly what you are going to say and rehearse it before you meet with the person, preparing yourself for any questions that might come your way. After you've done that, decide where and what time you are going to sit and deliver the news. Lastly, fully explain why you are telling this person these things, so they can fully understand where you are coming from and ensure there is no confusion.

Related: Stop Avoiding It: 4 Tips for Delivering Tough Feedback

To learn how you can professionally deliver bad news, check out Get Voip's infographic below.

Rose Leadem is a freelance writer for Entrepreneur.com. 

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Career

Is Consumer Services a Good Career Path for 2024? Here's the Verdict

Consumer services is a broad field with a variety of benefits and drawbacks. Here's what you should consider before choosing it as a career path.

Business News

'Creators Left So Much Money on the Table': Kickstarter's CEO Reveals the Story Behind the Company's Biggest Changes in 15 Years

In an interview with Entrepreneur, Kickstarter CEO Everette Taylor explains the decision-making behind the changes, how he approaches leading Kickstarter, and his advice for future CEOs.

Business Ideas

87 Service Business Ideas to Start Today

Get started in this growing industry, with options that range from IT consulting to childcare.