# Write a word-for-word script for a difficult conversation

A word-for-word conversation script with opening lines, key questions, and phrases to avoid so you stay direct without being harsh.

- Topic: Email & Workplace Communication
- Framework: Few-Shot
- Level: Standard
- Tags: Communication, Writing, Write, Code, Fill-in Template
- Source: https://www.thinkwithprompt.com/prompts/write-a-word-for-word-script-for-a-difficult-conversation

## Prompt

```text
Write a script for a difficult conversation so I can be direct without being harsh.

**Who I'm talking to and our relationship:** [e.g. "peer in another team", "my manager", "a long-time client"]
**The issue, in facts:** [WHAT HAPPENED, with examples]
**The one message they must hear:** [KEY MESSAGE]
**What I want to happen afterward:** [OUTCOME]
**How they're likely to feel or react:** [e.g. defensive, surprised, upset]
**Setting:** [in person / video call / phone]

Give me:
1. **Opening (first 30 seconds)** - 2 alternative opening lines that name the topic plainly, without a long warm-up or a fake compliment.
2. **The structure**, with suggested words for each part: the facts, the impact, my key message, their perspective, agreeing next steps, and the close.
3. **What to say** - 5-6 key sentences I should get out, in my own plain voice.
4. **What to ask** - 4-5 open questions to understand their side and reach agreement.
5. **What to avoid saying** - a table: Phrase to avoid | Why it backfires | Say this instead. Include blame, sarcasm, "always/never", "no offense, but", and over-apologizing.
6. **If it goes sideways** - short lines for when they get angry, cry, go silent, or change the subject.

Rules: keep sentences short and spoken, not written. Be firm on the issue and respectful to the person. Don't invent facts I haven't given; use [ADD EXAMPLE] where one is needed.
```

## What to fill in

- WHAT HAPPENED, with examples
- KEY MESSAGE
- OUTCOME
- e.g. defensive, surprised, upset
- in person / video call / phone
- ADD EXAMPLE

Free to copy and use. From ThinkWithPrompt (https://www.thinkwithprompt.com/), a library of 2,663 curated AI prompts.