WHAT TO SAY · PERFORMANCE
How to tell an employee they need to be more proactive
"Be more proactive" is the most common and least useful feedback. Replace it with examples of what you hoped they would do, and make clear what they can decide on their own.
Before you start
- Find two moments where acting early would have helped.
The script
- OPEN WITH
[Name], I want to talk about taking the initiative, with some specific examples.
When [situation], I was hoping you would [action] without waiting to be asked.
Here is what you can decide on your own from now on: [list]. You do not need to check with me first.
For bigger things, come to me with a suggestion, not just the problem.
Replace the [brackets] with real details. Say it in your own words; the structure matters more than the exact wording.
If they say…
“I did not want to overstep.”
That makes sense, and it is on me to be clear. Now you know where the line is.
What to avoid
- The phrase "be more proactive" with no examples.
- Criticising initiative when it goes slightly wrong.
Related
- Review phrases for initiative
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- How to tell an employee their probation is being extended
- How to tell an employee about a mistake that affected a customer
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- How to tell an employee to stop working late and overworking
- All 24 scripts