Difficult Conversation Starters
Scripts and frameworks for tough management conversations. Get opening lines, key phrases to use (and avoid), and follow-up steps for any situation.
The Salary Freeze Communication
When you need to deliver news about compensation freezes, reduced bonuses, or other bad financial news to your team.
Opening Script
[name/team], I need to have a candid conversation about compensation. Due to [honest reason — company financial performance, market conditions, budget constraints], we will not be able to [give raises/pay bonuses/adjust compensation] for [timeframe]. I know this is deeply disappointing, and I don't want to sugarcoat it. Let me explain what I know and what I'm doing to advocate for you.
Key Phrases to Use
- “I understand that compensation directly affects your life, and I take that seriously.”
- “Here's exactly what I know, and here's what I'm still fighting for.”
- “I want to be transparent rather than have you hear this secondhand.”
- “Let's talk about non-compensation ways I can support your growth in the meantime.”
Phrases to Avoid
- “At least you still have a job.”
- “Money isn't everything — think about the growth opportunities.”
- “Everyone is in the same boat, so let's not dwell on it.”
Follow-Up Steps
- 1Communicate any timeline for when compensation reviews will resume.
- 2Explore non-monetary recognition: title adjustments, development budgets, flexibility.
- 3Advocate visibly and communicate to your team what you're pushing for on their behalf.
Emotional Awareness Tip
Money conversations carry enormous emotional weight — it's tied to self-worth, fairness, and security. Don't minimize someone's disappointment by comparing them to others or pointing out non-monetary benefits. Sit with the discomfort. Your honest acknowledgment of how hard this is will earn more trust than any spin.
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