Module 3/4 22 min
Career conversation
Step 1 / 2·Career conversation, not a promotion promise
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Learning objectives — after this module you will:
- Lead an effective career conversation
- Avoid promises you can't keep
- Connect the career conversation to the IDP
Learn ~7 min
Career conversation, not a promotion promise
Have a frame for this delicate conversation.
A career-conversation frame (based on three questions)
- LOOK BACK: "What in your work makes you feel most engaged and best at it?" — understand strengths and motivation
- LOOK FORWARD: "How do you picture yourself growing over the next 2–3 years?" — don't push, let them draw it
- LOOK AROUND: "Which paths at the company fit? What to prepare?" — connect to the career path and real opportunities
Don't promise what you can't control
A manager's deadly mistake: "Just keep trying, next year I'll promote you to team lead." When the promise falls through (for reasons out of your control), you lose trust and the person. Talk about CAPABILITY and OPPORTUNITY ('here's what to prepare'), don't promise a TITLE.
Key takeaway: Career conversation: look back – look forward – look around; talk about capability and opportunity, don't promise a title.