Telling a client you are going to miss a deadline
A commitment is going to slip and you have to tell the customer before they find out.
Strategy
Tell them early, give one new date you will absolutely hit, and say what changes so it does not repeat. Early bad news is a credibility deposit.
How this one opens
I am calling with news you are not going to like, and I would rather you hear it from me today than notice it Friday.
This is the first line of the full script for this exact situation.
What usually happens next
Most likely: frustration, then a push to keep the original date or to know the business impact.
One thing not to say
We ran into some unexpected issues
You are seeing a piece of this script. 5 parts are written in full.
The rest of the opening, the full pushback path, everything to avoid, and the follow-up message — written for this situation.
Unlock the Full 5-Script Management Bundle
Managers use these plug-and-play communication templates to lead difficult team conversations without the anxiety. Get the complete PDF bundle delivered straight to your inbox.
Need this script tailored to a sensitive situation?
No two workplace conflicts are exactly alike. If you are preparing for a highly sensitive, high-stakes meeting and cannot afford to make a mistake, let our executive team write a custom, turn-key script tailored precisely to your situation.
- 24-Hour Delivery
- 100% Confidential
- Step-by-Step Delivery Coaching Notes
Secure checkout, no account needed. You'll answer four short questions right after payment.