The cost of putting off a performance conversation
Giving someone time to work it out only helps if they know there is something to work out. Delaying a hard conversation usually makes it harder for everyone.
THE QUICK ANSWER
Giving someone “time to figure it out” may feel kind, but it is not fair if they do not realise there is a problem. Hinting or hoping things improve turns one difficult conversation into months of quiet frustration, so when it finally happens it lands as a shock. The fix is to name the gap directly as soon as you see it, explain what needs to change and say how you will help.
GO DEEPER
Why waiting is less kind than it feels
Most managers delay performance conversations for understandable reasons. They do not want to upset someone, they hope the issue will resolve itself, or they assume a few hints will be enough. Waiting can feel like patience and generosity.
The trouble is that hints are easy to miss, and the person often has no idea anything is wrong. Meanwhile, frustration builds on the manager’s side. When the conversation eventually happens, it can feel like an ambush, and the person is left asking: “Why didn’t anyone tell me?”
The fix is to name the gap directly the moment you see it. The video offers a simple structure: “This is the specific issue. Here’s what needs to change, and here’s how I’ll help you get there.” It is clear about the problem, clear about the standard and clear that support is available.
These conversations are uncomfortable, and that discomfort does not fully go away with practice. Being direct is not the same as being harsh, so keep the focus on specific behaviour rather than personality. As the video puts it, the discomfort lasts a week, while the fairness matters for their whole career.
KEY TAKEAWAY
Silence about a performance problem is not kindness. Name it early, say what needs to change and offer your help.
TEST YOURSELF
A manager has noticed a performance issue but has only hinted at it for several weeks, hoping things will improve. What would the video recommend?
PRACTISE IT
Try this lesson in the arcade
Quick retro games that start with this lesson’s situations. One thumb, one to three minutes, free.
