18. Negotiating a deadline with a colleague
Setting: An office meeting room.
Participants: John (Team Leader) and Priya (Team Member).
John: Hi, Priya. Thanks for taking the time to meet. I wanted to discuss the marketing report due next week. Priya: Sure, John. Is there an issue with the deadline? John: Well, yes. The client just informed me they need the report two days earlier than planned. Instead of next Friday, they want it by Wednesday. Priya: Wednesday? That’s going to be tough. We’re still waiting on some data from the sales team, and I’ve already got a packed schedule this week. John: I completely understand, and I appreciate how much you’re juggling. Is there any way you can prioritize this? Priya: I’ll do my best, but it might mean working late or shifting other tasks. Can we get the sales data faster? John: I’ve already spoken to the sales team, and they’ve promised to send the data by tomorrow morning. That should give us a bit more time. Priya: That helps, but I’ll still need support to meet the new deadline. Could someone else assist with compiling the report? John: Good idea. How about I assign Ramesh to handle the initial formatting and data entry? That should save you a few hours. Priya: That works. I’ll focus on the analysis and writing, then. But, John, if the data is delayed, I’ll need you to speak to the client about adjusting expectations. John: Of course, Priya. I’ll make sure you’re not left in a bind. Let’s aim for Wednesday, and I’ll follow up with the sales team to keep things on track. Priya: Alright, I’ll adjust my schedule and make it work. Thanks for understanding. John: Thanks, Priya. I really appreciate your flexibility. Let me know if you need any additional support. Priya: Will do. Thanks, John.Audio Script
Questions
Part 1: Multiple Choice (Choose the correct answer)
- Why is the deadline for the report being moved?
A) The client needs it earlier than planned.
B) The sales team delayed their data submission.
C) There was a scheduling error in the team. - What issue does Priya highlight about meeting the new deadline?
A) The report analysis is incomplete.
B) She has a packed schedule this week.
C) She needs training on report formatting. - What solution does John propose to help Priya?
A) Extending the deadline by one day.
B) Assigning someone to help with the initial formatting.
C) Postponing Priya’s other tasks. - What condition does Priya set for agreeing to the new deadline?
A) Receiving additional training.
B) Ensuring the sales data is delivered on time.
C) Increasing the team size.
Part 2: Fill in the Blanks
- The original deadline for the report was __________.
- The sales team promised to send the data by __________.
- Ramesh will assist with __________ and __________.
- Priya agreed to prioritize the report after adjusting her __________.
Answer Key
- A
- B
- B
- B
- next Friday
- tomorrow morning
- formatting; data entry
- schedule