You Effed Up? Here’s How to Deal

1. While you’re daydreaming in a meeting, your boss calls you out.
She inquires, “What did you think?” The real answer: You’d been thinking about what to order for lunch, the naughty move your BF tried on you last night, and a ton of other things that had nada to do with her presentation. Instead of pulling a BS response out of thin air, say in a serious tone, “I think that’s a smart way to go.” By agreeing with her yet offering no specifics, odds are you won’t be busted.

2. At an event, you’re asked your opinion on a news topic you’re totally clueless about.
You don’t even know what continent everyone’s discussing let alone your opinion on the issue. Reply, “You know, I’m still trying to make sure I totally understand Amanda’s point. Could you explain it again?” People love expounding on their views, and by the time she’s finished, someone else will spout off.

3. On a first date, your meal ends up in your lap.
Say your chips and salsa land on the flirty white dress. You can try to blot out the stain with water, but the damage is done, so the best thing to do is laugh it off with “at least we got that over with” or “I swear, I don’t usually wear my dinner.” On the upside, it’s a good way to gauge whether your date is the no-big-deal forgiving type.

4. You introduce someone by the wrong name.
Smile and say, “I’m sorry, but my best friend’s name is Emma and you remind me of her,” so you accept the blame yet flatter the other person. Then continue the convo as if nothing had happened.

5. You commit a major e-mail fail.
Ouch: You sent an e-mail complaining about your friend—to the same friend. Instead of pretending it didn’t happen or trying to justify what you said (“well, you are a total bridezilla ...”), cop to the error, say that it’s inexcusable, and consider sending her flowers with a card the next day telling her how much she means to you.