The Situation
Someone didn't deliver what they promised, when they promised it. Now you're stuck, the project is delayed, or you're doing damage control. You need to address it.
Why This Conversation Is Difficult
- Don't want to seem like you're attacking them
- They might have excuses or get defensive
- You depend on this person for future work
- Unclear if it's their fault or circumstances
Your Goals
- State the impact of the missed deadline clearly
- Understand what happened without interrogating
- Agree on how to prevent this next time
- Preserve the working relationship
Phrases That Work
"
The deliverable was due Friday and I haven't received it. What's the status?
"
When this is late, it means I can't start my part, which delays the whole project.
"
I'm not trying to assign blame. I need to understand so we can fix it.
"
Going forward, can you flag earlier if something's at risk?
Common Objections & How to Handle Them
"I was waiting on someone else"
Acknowledge, but ask why you weren't informed
"It's not that big a deal"
Explain the downstream impact
"You're overreacting"
Stay calm, stick to facts and impact
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