Difficult Conversations

Suggested prompts & ~30s scripts

• →Open the conversation with care and clarity.

  I asked for this conversation because I care about our working relationship and the quality of our delivery. I want us to be honest and constructive, not defensive. My goal is shared understanding and a better way of working together. I’ll share what I’ve observed, and I want to hear your view fully. Can we start from that intention?

• →State the issue without blame.

  Over the last three sprints, several commitments landed late without early warning. When that happens, the rest of the team absorbs the risk, and trust drops. I’m not saying intent was bad—I’m saying the pattern is creating pressure. I need clearer status updates when risk appears, not after the deadline slips.

• →Propose a path forward and invite dialogue.

  Going forward, can we agree on a Friday risk note and an immediate ping if a date looks shaky? I’ll support you with prioritization when capacity is tight. I want you to succeed, and I want the team protected. Does that feel fair, and is there support you need from me to make this work?

Success criteria

• ✓Calm tone
• ✓Clear boundaries
• ✓Collaborative close

Personalized coaching focus