Elevate Your

Communication Style
We’re all human, and when things get busy, it’s easy for
frustration to sneak into how we communicate. For example:

●​ You want others to better engage in work

●​ Request information or clarification
●​ You protect your boundaries
●​ You clarify roles and responsibilities
●​ You need to tell unpleasant things
●​ Decline participation
●​ Respond to repetitive questions and others.

In these moments, it’s important to frame our words in a way

that leads to the outcomes you want and encourages
collaboration and understanding:

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1
 Getting a person engaged in work

Hey [Name], I’d love to get your insights on this project! Your experience would be valuable.
Would you be open to brainstorming ideas together?

In the future, please share information with the team sooner, so we can resolve issues timely.

I would benefit from regular check-ins with you to gain more consistent guidance.

I am confident of your knowledge on this topic and encourage you to take the lead.

Please let me know when I can expect a response regarding [...]. Thank you!

Please include me in all future meetings regarding this topic, as my involvement is essential,
thanks.

Request information or clarification

Could you help me understand [specific topic]? I want to make sure I have all the right
details before moving forward. Thanks in advance!

I just want to double-check my understanding of [task/project]. Are we aligned that [brief

summary of your understanding]? Let me know if I missed anything!

I noticed [specific detail] wasn’t mentioned. Should I assume [possible answer], or is there
something else I should consider?

I noticed [specific detail] wasn’t mentioned. Should I assume [possible answer], or is there
something else I should consider?

I’m working on [task/project] and want to ensure I’m on the right track. Could you share any
insights or best practices that might be helpful?

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2
 Protecting boundaries

I’m currently in deep work mode on [project], but I’d be happy to connect after [time]. Would that
work for you?

To stay on track with my priorities, I’ve blocked this time for focused work. Let’s catch up after
[time]—looking forward to it!

I understand this is a priority for you and I will get to it as soon as I can - because I am currently
working on more pressing items. Let's discuss it on [add day/date].

Let’s regroup when more details become available.

I see this is within your expertise, would you like to handle it/to take the lead on it?

Clarifying roles and responsibilities

Hey [Name], I am eager to know how to complete this task and I appreciate more information
about the tools/processes involved.

Hey [Name], to complete this on time, I will need further details on what is required/expected.

Hey [Name],I wanted to double-check—who is the main point of contact for [specific
responsibility]? Just making sure I direct my questions to the right person!

Hey [Name], just to make sure we’re aligned—am I correct in assuming that I’ll be handling [task]
while you take care of [another task]? Let me know if we need to adjust anything!

"Hi [Name], I noticed some overlap in our tasks for [project]. Would it help to quickly align on
who’s covering what to ensure we don’t duplicate efforts?

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3
 Telling unpleasant things

Our team is already at capacity and will require additional resources to get this task completed.

I see there are issues with this task. Let’s review it together to define the blocker and agree upon
the solution.

I appreciate the effort you put into this! One thing I noticed is [specific issue]. Maybe we can adjust
[suggestion] to make it even stronger?

I think there’s an opportunity to refine [specific aspect]. Let’s brainstorm together on how to
improve it!

I know you’ve got a lot on your plate, but I noticed that [task] hasn’t been completed yet. Is there
anything I can do to help move things along?

Can you walk me through these timelines? I hesitate with the dates shared.

Declining participation

Appreciate your request; however, I’m unable to assist as this is out of my expert area. I suggest
you reach out to…

This sounds like a great initiative! Unfortunately, my schedule is packed right now, so I won’t be
able to commit. Let me know if there’s another way I can contribute.

I won’t be able to attend the meeting, but I’d love to review the notes and follow up on any action
items that involve me

Please remove me from this thread and feel free to loop me back in the future should my input be
required

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4
 Responding to repetitive questions and frequent check-ins

I appreciate your patience, as I need time to address this. I will provide an update asap.

The previous communications contain the information you are looking for, here’s a short recap/key
highlights…

I confirm the information has not changed since our last communication, please find it here: …

Would you be willing to replace frequent communications with monthly touch basing where we
can discuss all the updates?

I suggest collecting all updates\information here … to ensure we all stay aligned on ...

Here’s a helpful tip for crafting respectful messages: if you’re

uncertain about the tone of your communication, consider
asking AI for support! Try using this prompt:

“Could you please rephrase my message to ensure it’s

respectful, fosters collaboration, and clearly outlines
actionable steps for the recipient, while also conveying
an optimistic and supportive tone?”

This approach will help you enhance your communication and

foster a more constructive dialogue.

Good luck!

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