Conversation Planner · for managers
How to talk to an employee who blames others
Read the approach below, or skip ahead and get a plan written for your own situation.
Plan my conversation — free ↓Why the usual approach fails
Managers either argue about whose fault it really was or let it go to keep the peace. Arguing about blame makes people defend harder, and letting it go teaches the team that ownership is optional. The useful question isn't who caused it — it's what this person controls next time.
How to open
"I want to talk about the Henderson delivery, and I'm not interested in whose fault it was. I want to look at the part that was yours to steer, because I think there's something we can change there."
Ask before you tell
- "Looking back, where did you first see it going off track?"
- "What part of that was in your hands?"
- "If it happened again tomorrow, what would you do differently?"
What to agree before you leave the room
One thing they will own on the next project, said in their words, and a short review together when it finishes.
Make it yours — free
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Built on the COACH method by Jon Kludt, Business Coach · Certified EOS Implementer® · thecoachconversation.com