May 13: Master the Opening Statement

The first 30 seconds set the tone for the entire conversation.

How you open a difficult conversation significantly impacts its success. A strong opening is direct yet non-accusatory, focuses on specific behaviors, and signals your supportive intent.

Take Action: Draft the exact opening statement (3-5 sentences) for your most urgent conversation. Include: 1) A neutral observation of the specific behavior/situation, 2) Its concrete impact on operations, and 3) Your intention to find a solution together. Test your statement by asking: "Does this invite dialogue rather than defensiveness?" Revise until it does.