School
How to get a group-project teammate to do their part
You’re talking to Tyler, a teammate. The presentation is due Monday at 9. Tyler’s research slides are still blank. The goal: name what’s missing, the deadline, and what you need from him.
Your first line
“Hey Tyler, the research slides are still blank, and we present Monday at 9. Can you have them in the doc by Saturday?”
Make it easy: what’s missing, the real deadline and one specific date, with no blame. Tyler knows exactly what to do and by when.
What Tyler might say, and what to say back
Tyler: “I’ve been really busy.”
You: “I get it, it’s a lot right now. What’s getting in the way? Is anything unclear about the slides?”
Tyler: “It’s not due till Monday. There’s still time.”
You: “It is, but we need Sunday to practice. Saturday gives us that. Can you do Saturday?”
Tyler: “I didn’t really know what you wanted on them.”
You: “That helps to know. Three slides: the key stats, two sources and one chart, like my section. Does Saturday work?”
Two things that trip people up
- Sarcasm about being “busy,” or a vague “just do your part.”Name exactly what’s missing, and ask what’s getting in the way.
- Accepting “I’ll get to it this weekend.”Get a day and a time, plus a check-in: “Text the group when the slides are in.”
Now say it out loud
Reading the words isn’t the same as saying them. Practice this one with Tyler pushing back like the real person would. Then your coach, Quinn, fixes your exact words. The move to focus on: Make it easy.
Practice this one free3 free reps a day. No sign-up. Out loud or typed.