11 tips for telling your boss you screwed up

We all make mistakes from time to time. But no matter how big or small, no one wants to admit when they've screwed up, especially at work.

"When we make a mistake we experience a cognitive dissonance, which is a form of mental discomfort and tension," says Mary Hladio, a workplace expert and president of Ember Carriers leadership group.

She explains that the natural tendency is to cover up a mistake to prevent ourselves from tarnishing our reputations and losing credibility. "But this can be more damaging than taking your lumps by accepting responsibility, Hladio says.

The more open and honest you are about the matter, the higher the chance of resolving it quickly without getting into major trouble, she says.

David Parnell, a legal consultant, communication coach, and author, says that more often than not, it's best to get out in front of any issues or aftershocks from a mistake. "Your superiors will usually find out anyway, so it's certainly best if they hear about it from you," he says.

Here's how to tell your boss you've screwed up: