Here is something I wish someone told me earlier in my career: only apologize when an apology is truly necessary. An apology when there was no wrongdoing can look like an insecure bid for affirmation and encouragement, which is awkward for the receiver. It’s a bit like fishing for compliments.
I see this a lot in emails, especially in cold emails. If you are cold-emailing someone, don’t apologize. You don’t owe them an apology. Instead, thank them for their time. If they don’t read it, they won’t be thanked for their time.
Whenever I feel the urge to apologize, I ask myself two questions.
Of course, if your actions have a negative effect on someone, please apologize.