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Differences that change a conversation

Not now or never?

Today’s readiness and a verdict on the future

Anna assesses Marek’s current readiness. Marek hears that management is closed to him.

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Marek tells Anna that he wants to move into management.
I want to move into management. What should I develop?
Anna answers briefly and without a time boundary.
Honestly? I don’t see you as a manager.
Anna continues but Marek is stuck on the first sentence.
But I do see specific things you can develop…
The door is closed.
A later weaker review connects in Marek’s mind with that conversation. LATER
So it was decided all along.
Marek returns for a precise meaning and criteria for change.
Do you mean not now or never? What exactly do I need to change?
Those are two different questions. I should have answered both.
Em, the Empatyzer coach
Anna wants to name her current assessment of Marek’s readiness, but her sentence has no time boundary or criteria for change. Marek hears a permanent verdict from the person who can influence his promotion. Fair feedback should separate not being ready today from not having that path and name behaviours that will show progress.