5 Scripts for Conversations You’d Rather Avoid | Difficult Conversation Scripts for Managers
Lead with confidence, not dread.
Awkward conversations are part of leading people. The underperformance you’ve noticed, the team member who seems off, the pay question you can’t say yes to. Most managers put these conversations off, and the cost shows up later in frustration, disengagement and good people leaving.
This script pack makes them easier. It’s for founders, leaders and good humans who want to say what needs to be said clearly and kindly, without sounding like an HR robot. It’s written by Emma Miller, an Australian HR consultant with over 20 years of senior HR leadership experience.
The five scripts:
Performance isn’t meeting expectations: raising it early, before it snowballs
You’re ready for more: recognising potential and talking about growth
This behaviour isn’t aligned with our culture: addressing how someone shows up, even when the work is fine
You seem off, are you okay?: checking in with care, and knowing when to refer on
We need to talk about pay: being honest about what’s possible, even when the answer is no
You’ll also get a bonus script for giving great feedback, plus guidance on cultural sensitivity and on having these conversations over video.
Each script includes:
When to use it
How to prepare, without overthinking it
Flexible wording you can make your own
What to avoid
Your next move to keep things on track
Think of it as your starting point for the conversations that shape your culture. Tweak the words so they sound like you. The earlier you have these conversations, the easier they are. 🌱
Who it’s for: founders, business owners, team leaders and new managers in growing businesses.
Format: a PDF guide, downloaded instantly after purchase. It works on any device and you can print it.
Questions
Will the scripts sound robotic if I use them word for word?
They’re written to be adapted. Use them as a starting point and change the language so it sounds natural for you.
Can I share it with my managers?
Yes, you can share it with managers within your own business.
Is there a bundle?
Yes. The Manager Conversations Bundle includes this pack, the Manager’s Guide to Career Conversations and the One-on-One Conversation Starters for $89.
Lead with confidence, not dread.
Awkward conversations are part of leading people. The underperformance you’ve noticed, the team member who seems off, the pay question you can’t say yes to. Most managers put these conversations off, and the cost shows up later in frustration, disengagement and good people leaving.
This script pack makes them easier. It’s for founders, leaders and good humans who want to say what needs to be said clearly and kindly, without sounding like an HR robot. It’s written by Emma Miller, an Australian HR consultant with over 20 years of senior HR leadership experience.
The five scripts:
Performance isn’t meeting expectations: raising it early, before it snowballs
You’re ready for more: recognising potential and talking about growth
This behaviour isn’t aligned with our culture: addressing how someone shows up, even when the work is fine
You seem off, are you okay?: checking in with care, and knowing when to refer on
We need to talk about pay: being honest about what’s possible, even when the answer is no
You’ll also get a bonus script for giving great feedback, plus guidance on cultural sensitivity and on having these conversations over video.
Each script includes:
When to use it
How to prepare, without overthinking it
Flexible wording you can make your own
What to avoid
Your next move to keep things on track
Think of it as your starting point for the conversations that shape your culture. Tweak the words so they sound like you. The earlier you have these conversations, the easier they are. 🌱
Who it’s for: founders, business owners, team leaders and new managers in growing businesses.
Format: a PDF guide, downloaded instantly after purchase. It works on any device and you can print it.
Questions
Will the scripts sound robotic if I use them word for word?
They’re written to be adapted. Use them as a starting point and change the language so it sounds natural for you.
Can I share it with my managers?
Yes, you can share it with managers within your own business.
Is there a bundle?
Yes. The Manager Conversations Bundle includes this pack, the Manager’s Guide to Career Conversations and the One-on-One Conversation Starters for $89.

