I’ve written so many scripts, I’m ready to join the writer’s strike!
I always have a set of scripts handy to give to managers and leaders because preparation is key to the success of these conversations.
We all know what happens when a message doesn’t land properly.
Confusion. Fear. Anger. Distrust.
Sometimes all in 1 convo…
A really good script gives you the support you need to land the message in an effective manner.
To be clear: I’m not suggesting we all become robots and say exactly the same thing. 🤖
I’m just suggesting we be better prepared for important convos because their impact is massive!
The 3 most commonly scripted convos:
- Company updates
- Performance challenges
- Terminations
These conversations tend to be the trickiest and the ones that make folks the most nervous.
When writing a script it’s important to:
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Be as direct as possible: For something like a termination or performance issue skirting around the topic isn’t kind or empathetic. Pull the bandaid off and get to it.
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Be concise: We’re in the scroll times, if you’re reciting paragraphs and using corporate jargon you’ve lost the audience. Our attention spans are short. Make use of the attention you have!
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Share context: sharing why something is changing, what is prompting this conversation, or how this impacts the organization sets the right foundation and frames the conversation.
- Be empathetic: these changes can be scary for employees and it’s important to remember there’s a human on the other side of that conversation. How would you want to receive this news?
Want access to the scripts I use? Shoot me a reply and I’ll send you my examples.
BTW: there’s a crew of 150+ HR/People leaders in my community, Safe Space, talking about how to navigate these comms and giving feedback to each other in real-time. Where else can you get instant feedback or a gut check on what you’re dealing with? Come hang with us!
Writing a script is only half the battle. The other half?
How the message is delivered.
