An uncomfortable conversation can grow in your mind. You rehearse every objection while leaving the actual request vague. A short preparation note can give you something steadier to bring to the discussion.
Choose a suitable time and setting. A conversation about workload needs enough attention for both people to look at the work, rather than a hurried exchange at the end of a meeting.
Separate facts from your interpretation
Write what happened in observable terms. “Three additional tasks arrived this week” is more useful than “Nobody respects my time.” You can still describe the effect on you, but begin with something the other person can understand and discuss.
List the relevant deadlines or commitments. Avoid bringing every past frustration into a conversation intended to solve one current problem.
Make a specific request
Decide what you want to ask for. Perhaps you need priorities agreed, a deadline moved or a duty shared. “Could we decide which of these tasks comes first?” gives the other person a clear question.
Prepare one alternative you could reasonably accept. If a deadline cannot change, could the scope be reduced? Check that the alternative actually fits your capacity before offering it.
Know what you can do without agreement
The Program on Negotiation describes BATNA as the best alternative to a negotiated agreement. For this exercise, simply think about your realistic next option if the request is declined. It should be something you can genuinely do, not a threat invented to force agreement.
Some situations require support or specialist advice. If speaking directly would put you at risk, use the preparation note to seek appropriate help rather than forcing a confrontation.
A one-page preparation
- The situation is…
- The effect on the work or on me is…
- My request is…
- An alternative I could discuss is…
- If we cannot agree, my next realistic step is…
Bring the note as a guide. Leave space to learn something you did not know before the conversation.
