Open With the Headline, Not the Cushion

The steering meeting starts at noon. Malik does not yet know the pilot has been cut. What should Elena say first? Say the clear headline, pause, then acknowledge the impact before explaining the constraints. This follows the SPIKES knowledge and empathy sequence. It gives Malik the truth while creating space for the feelings and identity hit that Difficult Conversations predicts. Begin with the CFO's budget rationale so Malik understands the decision before hearing the cut. The rationale-first move overloads the receiver before the core fact is clear. It protects Elena from discomfort but delays the knowledge step. Open with praise…

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