Conversation Planner · for managers
How to talk to an overwhelmed employee
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
"Let me know if you need anything" puts the work back on the person who is already drowning. They'll say they're fine. You have to bring the specifics yourself, and be ready to take something off their plate in the room.
How to open
"I've noticed you online past eight most nights this month, and a couple of small things have slipped that never used to. I'm not worried about the work. I'm worried about you. Can we look at what's on your plate?"
Ask before you tell
- "Walk me through everything you're carrying right now."
- "Which of those feels heaviest?"
- "If I could take one thing away this week, what should it be?"
What to agree before you leave the room
One thing removed or delayed today, by you, and a check-in in a week to see if it helped.
Make it yours — free
Edit the details below to match your situation and get a full five-step COACH plan by email.
Other conversations
- How to talk to an employee who asks for a raise you can't give →
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- How to talk to an employee who doesn't speak up in meetings →
- How to talk to an employee who takes credit for others' work →
- How to talk to an employee who is rude to customers →
- How to talk to an employee who is older or more experienced than you →
Built on the COACH method by Jon Kludt, Business Coach · Certified EOS Implementer® · thecoachconversation.com