Do not begin an interaction by apologizing (for example, for a lack of preparation), as this creates an asymmetry to your disadvantage; instead, start with confidence and offer your apologies later if necessary.

noli's read

This advice is particularly robust and validated by research in communication psychology. A classic study by Cynthia McPherson Frantz and Courtney Bennigson (2005), relying on narrative analyses and experimental scenarios (similar to randomized controlled trials), demonstrates that delayed apologies are significantly more effective than premature ones. Apologizing later allows for an initial connection to be established and ensures the interlocutor feels heard, which maximizes overall satisfaction. Furthermore, according to self-presentation theories, notably those advanced by psychologist Mark Leary, starting with unjustified or preemptive apologies shifts attention to your shortcomings. This degrades projected confidence and perceived competence, immediately establishing an imbalance. This advice contains no exaggeration and offers a highly relevant communication strategy for relational well-being.

the sources

No named source held this one up — that absence is part of the verdict.