Whether it’s an unexpected pregnancy, the death of a close friend, or the discovery of infidelity on your spouse, breaking news is always difficult. The way you break the news can make or break the entire situation. Whether you are a manager, a police officer, or even a member of a family, knowing how to deliver bad news can save lives and help people move on.
When you’re dealing with breaking news, it’s important to understand that you are in a race against time. You have to get the story first, but you also have to be right. This can be particularly difficult for journalists, who have to rely on sources to tell them what is happening. As a result, they often end up reporting things that later turn out to be untrue.
You should also be prepared to face some blowback. It is not uncommon for people to blame the messenger when they hear bad news, which can lead to dramatic conflicts that are completely unnecessary. George Clooney’s character in the movie Up in the Air is a prime example of this dynamic, but it can occur in any setting.
The last thing you want to do is leave the person in shock and disbelief. Follow up with a call or meeting, and check in on how they are doing. This shows that you care about them and that you’re not just the bearer of bad news. It can also help them feel heard and supported in their moment of crisis.