Which role are you playing?
Select the role you have been assigned to see your instructions.
The Speaker (Employee)
Respond as realistically as possible, giving the manager enough content to practice active listening.
Share your challenge or draw on one of the following.
Example Issue 1: Exec Presentation
I'm presenting to the exec soon and I'm feeling nervous because it's my first time.
I'm worried I'll get tough questions / I'll freeze / I won't come across confidently.
I want to feel more prepared and clearer on what "good" looks like in that room.
Example Issue 2: Stern Email
I received a direct, stern email from my manager and it's left me feeling unsettled.
I'm unsure if I've done something wrong or if I'm reading too much into the tone.
I'm not sure how to respond; whether to reply straight away, ask for a chat, or just let it go.
Example Issue 3: Conflicting Priorities
I've been given several urgent tasks at once and I'm feeling overwhelmed.
I'm not sure which work should take priority, and I don't want to disappoint anyone.
I want to work out what to focus on first and how to have that conversation with the people involved.
The Listener (Manager)
Apply the four steps: Prepare → Engage → Respond → Follow Up. Your role is to listen, not fix or advise.
The Observer
You are observing the conversation to provide constructive feedback to the Manager (Listener). Focus on the following:
- Did the listener ask open questions ("what", "how", "tell me more")?
- Did the listener paraphrase to check understanding, e.g. "So what I'm hearing is…"?
- Did the listener name cues they noticed, e.g. "I noticed you paused there…"?
- Did the listener use silence intentionally (a 3-beat pause)?