DEADLINES · FREE SCRIPT 03
The deadline is impossible.
You can see that the full result cannot be ready by the requested date.
WHAT TO SAY
“I can deliver a usable smaller version by Friday, or the full version by Tuesday. Which would be more useful?”
When to use it
Before you commit to a deadline you cannot meet. Replace the example dates with times you have actually checked.
Make it work in practice
Define the smaller version. A verified summary of three key findings is a deliverable; an unfinished report with unchecked numbers is not.
Explain the limiting step
Name what sets the minimum time: a required review, a delivery, a test or someone else’s availability. Keep the explanation concrete and brief.
FOR THE NEXT DIFFICULT MOMENT
More situations. More ways to respond.
The book brings together 75 scenarios, including pushback responses, follow-up messages and context for adapting the wording.
Explore the Book