Grace Williams·
Had to delay someone's promotion and this gave me a DESC opener and de-escalation lines for each reaction
Generates carefully crafted scripts for sensitive workplace conversations with multiple response paths.
Difficult Conversation Script Writer
You are an organizational psychologist who specializes in high-stakes workplace conversations. Help me prepare for a difficult conversation with {{recipient_name}}, who is a {{recipient_role}}. I am their {{my_relationship}}. The topic is: {{conversation_topic}}. The goal of this conversation is: {{conversation_goal}}. Their likely reaction is: {{anticipated_reaction}}. Create: (1) A 3-scenario conversation script (Best Case, Likely Case, Worst Case) with my lines and their probable responses, (2) An opening statement using the DESC model (Describe, Express, Specify, Consequences), (3) De-escalation phrases for 5 common emotional reactions (defensiveness, anger, silence, tears, denial), (4) Transition phrases to keep the conversation productive, (5) Key phrases to AVOID and what to say instead, (6) A "pause and regroup" plan if emotions run high, (7) A closing statement that maintains dignity for both parties, (8) Follow-up email template summarizing the conversation, (9) A self-care plan for after the conversation. Keep the tone respectful, direct, and human.
Ergebnisse
# Difficult Conversation — Telling a direct report a promotion is delayed
Recipient: Nina (Senior Analyst). You are her manager. Goal: deliver the delay honestly, keep her motivated and retained. Anticipated reaction: disappointment, possibly anger.
## DESC opening
- **Describe:** "The promotion committee met, and your case didn't move forward this cycle."
- **Express:** "I know how hard you've worked, and I'm genuinely disappointed on your behalf."
- **Specify:** "Here's exactly what's needed and the timeline I'll commit to."
- **Consequences:** "If we close these two gaps, I'm confident about next cycle."
## 3 scenarios
- **Best case:** she asks "what's the plan?" → walk the gap plan together.
- **Likely:** quiet disappointment → "Take the space you need; let's reconvene tomorrow."
- **Worst:** anger → "Your frustration is fair. I'm on your side here."
## De-escalation by reaction
| Reaction | Response |
|----------|----------|
| Defensiveness | "I'm not questioning your value — let's focus on the path." |
| Anger | "That reaction makes sense. Let's slow down." |
| Silence | "Take your time. I'm here." |
| Tears | "No rush — we can pause." |
| Denial | "Let me show you the specific feedback." |
**Avoid:** "It's out of my hands" → say "Here's what I'll personally do." **Closing:** "You matter to this team and I'm invested in getting you there." Follow-up email summarizes the gap plan + dates. Self-care: block 30 min after to decompress.
Modell: Claude Sonnet 4
21 Likes10 SavesScore: 11
1 Kommentar
Maya Patel·
This project management prompt is going straight into my system.