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Script the first 60 seconds of a hard conversation, flagged for HR

  • For Managers and team leads
  • You practice Getting the tone right
  • Time about 5 minutes
  • Level Advanced

About this exercise

You must tell a team member, Jamal, that his scope is changing because a client project was cancelled. Write what you will say aloud in the first minute: plain text, 5 short sentences, under 100 words. Sentence 1 names the purpose. Include one sentence that invites his reaction. Do not blame him, promise a future role, or mention pay, and end with a separate final line: HR to review before the conversation. Use only the notes.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

  • Opening with an apology. The AI starts with 'I'm so sorry to have to tell you'. Try: Say: "Sentence 1 names the purpose plainly. No apology opener."
  • Promising what isn't decided. The AI softens the news by hinting at the Fenwick lead role. Try: Say: "Do not mention the Fenwick role; it is undecided."
  • Skipping the invite. The AI delivers a monologue and never asks for his reaction. Try: Say: "Include one sentence inviting his reaction."
  • Markdown and stage directions. The AI adds bold headings and [pause] notes. Try: Say: "Plain text, spoken sentences only."
  • Trusting the AI to count words. AI is bad at counting. Ask for a total word limit and it often lands over it. Try: Cap each sentence: "each sentence under 18 words."
  • Trusting the AI to count words. AI is bad at counting. Ask for a total word limit and it often lands over it. Try: Cap each part instead, for example: "each line under 12 words."

What a strong prompt includes

  • Says it's spoken
  • Names the purpose first
  • Invites a reaction
  • Says what to avoid
  • Adds the HR flag

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