Speaking clearly, giving feedback, and difficult conversations
Step 1 / 4·PREP — short and clear
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Learning objectives — after this module you will:
- Structure a clear message using PREP
- Give feedback with SBI instead of vague judgements
- Handle difficult conversations with 'I' statements, separating the issue from the person
PREP — short and clear
Get a structure for presenting your view coherently.
Many people ramble because they start with long context and only reach the point at the end — the listener loses patience before you get there. PREP flips that order: state the CONCLUSION first.
Same view, two ways of saying it
Rambling
“'Last week I met with operations, and I also re-read the Q2 numbers, and actually since March there were already signs, so overall I think… maybe we should reconsider the plan.'”
The listener has to wait until the end to learn what you want; the point is buried under context.
PREP
“'I propose we delay the plan by a month (Point). Q2 data shows demand down 15% (Reason). For example, May orders hit only 60% of forecast (Example). So a one-month delay would be safer (Point).'”
The point lands first, with reasons and evidence behind it — the listener grasps it immediately and can decide.
Key takeaway: PREP: state the POINT first, then Reason – Example – Point again.