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Tell a client about a project delay with a new date and no blame
- For Freelancers and creators
- You practice Getting the tone right
- Time about 5 minutes
- Level Beginner
About this exercise
Write a delay notice to a client, plain text under 90 words, subject line first, starting "Hi Ines,". Give the old and new delivery dates, the reason in one clause from the notes, what is already done, and what Ines needs to do (if anything). Don't blame the client, a vendor or illness, don't over-apologize (one "sorry" at most), and don't promise any other date. Line 1 must be exactly "Subject: Website delivery moves to Nov 20" and the email signs off "Tobias".
Common mistakes when you ask AI for this
- Blaming or oversharing. The AI mentions sickness or Ines's late photos. Try: Add: "Give only the approved reason; no blame, no illness."
- Over-apologizing. The AI says sorry three times. Try: Add: "One sorry at most."
- Missing client action. The AI omits the photos link. Try: Add: "Ask her to check the photos link by Nov 10."
- Long email. The AI writes a long email. Try: Add: "Plain text under 90 words, subject first."
What a strong prompt includes
- Sets the opener
- States both dates
- Gives the reason and progress
- Asks for her action
- Limits apology and blame
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