Conversation Planner · for managers
How to talk to an employee who doesn't keep you updated
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
"Communicate more" means nothing specific, so nothing changes. Often the person believes no news is good news, or thinks an update means admitting they're stuck. Define exactly what you want to know and when, and make early bad news safe.
How to open
"I found out on Friday that the migration was two weeks behind, and by then there wasn't much I could do to help. I'd much rather hear early. I want to understand how you think about updates."
Ask before you tell
- "When do you feel something is worth telling me?"
- "What makes it hard to flag when something is slipping?"
- "What kind of update would be easy for you to send?"
What to agree before you leave the room
A fixed rhythm — say, three lines every Tuesday and Friday: done, next, at risk — and your promise to respond to risks with help, not blame.
Make it yours — free
Edit the details below to match your situation and get a full five-step COACH plan by email.
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- How to talk to an employee who procrastinates →
Built on the COACH method by Jon Kludt, Business Coach · Certified EOS Implementer® · thecoachconversation.com