How to Apologize — and show that you mean it.

There are specific steps you should take when you apologize. The following link is an interview I did on the subject but I’ll recap for you here:
-Review your position with the legal department
-Recognize your mistake and acknowledge your fault
-show Regret sincerely
-take Responsibility with no blame toward others
-explain the Remedy you have to offer to correct the situation
-Rehearse your message and delivery
-Repeat the message as necessary
-Respect that people still will want to/need to scold you
-go to Re-hab if appropriate
-Repair your reputation with positive new steps
-Remember that people’s memory will fade

http://www.centralvalleybusinesstimes.com/stories/001/?ID=14540#drilldown