3-2-1: On finding the best way to do something, how timing shapes communication, and making unreasonable requests

What I want new PMs to do is: Describe the situation/problem. Describe solutions. Ask for advice on which solution to pick, or even better, explain what they will do/which solution they’ve picked. Offer a veto option and advise on deadline (If I am totally against the proposed solution, I can withhold my veto until this deadline.).

For example, if you’re embarking on a new project and think it should take three weeks to complete, ask for the perspectives of others who will execute the day-to-day tasks to ensure alignment on how much time it takes to deliver a quality product – and then be open to shifting your timeline, if possible.

There are a lot of bad ways to frame the meeting, both when first asking for it and once it begins. Framing like, “Can I interview you” or “Thanks for agreeing to this interview” both set set off alarm bells that this meeting is going to be super boring. I don’t want to be interviewed; I want to talk and help! The common, “Can I get your opinion on

Is the time (measured in weeks) it takes to create incredible content worth the risk that the delay causes? Is the issue at hand truly about the content, or is the real issue a break in trust? Might it be better to brainstorm with the client versus share slides (which tends to cut down conversation)?

As an introvert, if I’m faced with a challenging situation and have to give someone critical feedback, I’d personally rather write it all down, because I can articulate my thoughts more clearly in writing. I may still deliver that news verbally, but I’ll write it down first to consolidate it. And I’d often rather read critical feedback than have it