Say what you want to talk about (context):
Example: “I want to talk about my workload.”
Say what you want to achieve with the conversation (goal).
Example: “I would like to find a solution that is good for both of us.”
Discuss the facts:
Example: “I can’t finish my work because it is too much within the available time frame.”
Discuss the possible consequences:
Example: “Things are going to be left unfinished which will cause customers to become dissatisfied because we’re exceeding the deadline.
Example: “I feel gradually exhausted, therefore I can concentrate less.”
Give alternative:
Example: “I propose that we prioritize things and then choose what needs to be done now and what can wait until there is more time.”
Agree what you will do:
Example: “As agreed I will do this within this timeframe.”
Example: “As agreed this part will be asked to be done by someone else and I won’t have to do that anymore.”
Prepare your own conversation now and go for it. If the conversation was succesful: congratulations, your problem is solved. If not, you can ask for help through the EAP programme (see below).