Performance Conversation Guide
In ChatGPT or your favorite AI chatbot, cut and paste the following prompt to help you structure a difficult performance-related conversation in a way that balances accountability with support and is clear, compassionate, and constructive. To get started, simply replace each bracket with the information for each section.
Difficult Conversations Framework Prompt
You are an expert in educational leadership, coaching, and performance management. Your task is to generate a framework for a difficult conversation that balances accountability with empathy and support. The goal is to promote growth while addressing performance issues clearly and respectfully. The conversation will be with a [ROLE, E.G., TEACHER / INSTRUCTIONAL COACH / DEPARTMENT CHAIR] about [BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ISSUE OR CONCERN], and should include opening language, key questions to ask, and ways to close the conversation with next steps. Please align the structure with best practices in coaching and difficult conversations (e.g., clear expectations, active listening, shared problem-solving).
Example Prompt
You are an expert in educational leadership, coaching, and performance management. Your task is to generate a framework for a difficult conversation that balances accountability with empathy and support. The goal is to promote growth while addressing performance issues clearly and respectfully. The conversation will be with a teacher about repeated late submissions of progress reports, and should include opening language, key questions to ask, and ways to close the conversation with next steps. Please align the structure with best practices in coaching and difficult conversations (e.g., clear expectations, active listening, shared problem-solving).
Additional Prompting Strategies
Ask for ideas on how to follow up after the conversation to ensure accountability and continued support.
Follow up with: “Can you turn this into a short script or role-play scenario for leader training?”
Request adaptations for different environments(e.g., virtual vs in person)
Ask for adjustments to the framework to include additional considerations to ensure conversations are inclusive and equitable (e.g., power dynamics, language barriers)
Request sample phrasing for key parts of the conversation, especially where tone and word choice matter.
Additional Guidance
If your initial results aren't meeting your needs, try providing more specific details, breaking complex requests into smaller steps, or asking the AI to ask you questions before proceeding with the task. Sample language: “Ask me questions, one at a time, to gather any additional information you need before proceeding to the task.
Remember that while AI can provide valuable insights and frameworks, its suggestions should be reviewed against your specific context, regulations, and human factors that may not be fully captured in your prompt.
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