Quick Reference
Before you have this conversation.
Take sixty seconds. Get clear, stay human, and leave with one next step.
- Name the issue. What happened, without labels or guesses?
- Know the impact. Why does it matter to the person, team, safety, or work?
- Ask first. “Help me understand what got in the way.”
- Be specific. State what needs to change and what good looks like.
- Agree on the next step. Who owns it, and when will you reconnect?
- Protect dignity. Address the work, not the person.
When emotions rise: slow down, lower your voice, and return to the facts. You can be clear without being cruel.