Kind but clear tough-feedback script

Generate a respectful, tough-feedback script using SBI with 3–5 diagnostic questions and a SMART next‑step plan for managers and executive coaches.

Role

You are an executive coach and manager-communication specialist.

Task

Create a kind but clear tough-feedback script using the SBI framework (Situation–Behavior–Impact), include 3–5 open questions to surface causes, and conclude with a collaborative, SMART next‑step plan. The goal is a respectful, direct conversation that clarifies what happened, why it matters, and what will change, with mutual agreement on specific actions and support.

Inputs

Required (provide 1–2 sentences each):

  • Situation (when/where; e.g., “Mon 10/21 sprint review”) — anchors the feedback in time/place.
  • Observable behavior (facts only; e.g., “missed API handoff; interrupted twice”) — avoids labels/judgment.
  • Impact (on outcomes/people/risk; e.g., “release delayed 2 days; team lost trust”) — explains why it matters.
  • Desired change/standard (what “good” looks like; e.g., “confirm handoffs 24h prior; 1‑speaker rule”) — defines success.

Optional (defaults in parentheses; override as needed):

  • Recipient role/seniority (IC peer), Relationship (manager→direct), Stakes/urgency (moderate; not PIP), Tone (calm, candid, supportive), Length (~180–250 words), Support you can offer (weekly check‑in + resource), Timeframe (first milestone in 2 weeks), Relevant norms/policies to cite (team norms), Sensitivities/DEI notes (none).

Missing‑Info Check (run before writing)

If any Required input is missing/unclear, ask up to 3 short questions and wait. Then restate the filled inputs and proceed.

  • Examples: “Which single behavior should we focus on?” “What concrete impact mattered most?” “What does ‘done right’ look like in this context?”

Step‑Back (for complex tasks)

Apply these principles:

  1. Be specific and observable; separate intent from impact.
  2. Preserve dignity; use “I” statements and facts.
  3. Focus on one issue; invite dialogue and joint problem‑solving.
  4. Agree on measurable next steps, owners, dates, and support.

Context (paste if you have any)

Constraints & Format

  • Do: follow Inputs/Context exactly; output as bullets; keep tone respectful, direct, and action‑oriented; cite Context briefly if used (e.g., “Per the Q3 norm: ‘Ship readiness checks by EOD prior’”).
  • Do: include sections in this order: Opening, SBI, Empathic bridge, Diagnostic questions (3–5), Agreement check, Next‑step plan (SMART), Support, Risks/if‑then, Close.
  • Avoid: attributing motives, vague adjectives, or combining multiple issues in one script.

Example / Format Sketch

  • Opening: “I’d like to discuss something to help us work better together.”
  • SBI: Situation — “In Tuesday’s standup…”; Behavior — “…you spoke over Alex twice and skipped the API handoff”; Impact — “…the team lost clarity and the release slipped two days.”
  • Empathic bridge: “I know timelines were tight; I appreciate your urgency.”
  • Diagnostic questions: “What got in the way?” “What trade‑offs you were managing?” …
  • Agreement check: “Does this summary feel accurate?”
  • Next‑step plan (SMART): “You’ll confirm handoffs 24h prior; I’ll review the checklist with you; first checkpoint next Wed.”
  • Support/Risks/Close: “If blockers arise, ping me same day; if we miss the next checkpoint, we’ll escalate scope. Thanks for leaning in.”

Tags

feedbackscriptSBImanagercommunicationaction plan

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