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DESC Script
The DESC Script is a professional communication framework designed for managing challenging conversations and conflicts effectively. It provides a structured approach that helps maintain respect and professionalism while addressing difficult situations. This framework is particularly valuable in workplace settings where preserving relationships while resolving issues is crucial.
15min
Situational Response
Conflict ResolutionPerformance FeedbackSetting BoundariesAddressing Behavioral Issues

Framework Steps

"

Describe

Objectively describe the specific situation or behavior without judgment or emotion.

Key Points

  • Focus on observable facts and specific incidents
  • Use neutral, non-accusatory language
  • Stick to recent and relevant examples
  • Be specific about time, place, and frequency

Key Sentence Structures

  1. I've noticed that [specific behavior] has occurred [frequency] in [timeframe]...
  2. On [specific date/time], [objective observation]...
  3. During our recent [situation], [specific behavior] happened...
"

Express

Express your feelings or concerns about the situation and its impact clearly and professionally.

Key Points

  • Use 'I' statements to express impact
  • Focus on business impact and professional concerns
  • Maintain a calm and professional tone

Key Sentence Structures

  1. I feel [emotion] when this happens because...
  2. This impacts [specific aspect] by...
  3. I'm concerned about how this affects...
"

Specify

Clearly specify your request or desired change in behavior or situation.

Key Points

  • Be clear and specific about what you want
  • Make realistic and actionable requests
  • Focus on future behavior

Key Sentence Structures

  1. Moving forward, I would like to see...
  2. What I'm requesting is...
  3. Could we agree to...
"

Consequences

Outline the positive outcomes of making the change and potential consequences of not changing.

Key Points

  • Focus primarily on positive outcomes
  • Be specific about benefits
  • Address professional implications

Key Sentence Structures

  1. By making this change, we could...
  2. This would benefit [specific aspect] by...
  3. The positive impact would include...

Practice Guide

1. Content Preparation

  • Document specific instances and examples of the situation
  • Prepare objective observations without emotional language
  • List specific impacts and concerns
  • Outline clear, actionable requests

2. Key Points of Expression

Describe 25%Express 20%Specify 30%Consequences 25%
  • Maintain a calm and professional tone throughout
  • Use pauses effectively between steps
  • Listen actively to responses
  • Be open to dialogue and discussion

3. Practice Methods

1
Write out your DESC script for the specific situation
2
Practice delivery with the app's AI feedback
3
Record and review your delivery
4
Refine based on feedback and practice again

Key Inspection Points

Objective description
Professional tone
Clear requests
Positive focus

Example Analysis

Addressing Missed Project Deadlines

Basic Case
Describe

I've noticed that in the past month, three project deliverables were submitted after their deadlines - the client report was two days late, the analysis was three days late, and yesterday's presentation was delivered an hour after the meeting time.

Express

I'm concerned because these delays impact our team's reliability and our relationship with clients. It also puts additional pressure on other team members who need to adjust their schedules.

Specify

Moving forward, I'd like you to submit all deliverables at least two hours before their deadlines. If you anticipate any delays, please notify me at least 24 hours in advance so we can adjust our planning accordingly.

Consequences

By implementing this change, we'll improve our team's reliability, maintain better client relationships, and create a more efficient workflow for everyone. This will also help showcase your strong project management skills.

Highlight Analysis

Uses specific examples with dates and times
Maintains professional tone while addressing serious concerns
Provides clear, actionable solutions
Focuses on positive outcomes and professional development

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