PLANNING YOUR CONVERSATIONS 2. Anytime conversations Spontaneous feedback is a good way to respond to urgent needs. Studies show that coaching on behavior — whether positive or critical — is best provided as close as possible to the event that inspired it. That makes ‘anytime conversations’ a very important part of any manager’s toolkit. Anytime conversations might also include recognition, triage for a concern, or any other need that arises during the normal course of work. For an informal check-in, you might follow a template provided within your performance management platform — or it might take place outside that environment entirely. PROS CONS » Quickly highlight wins or address » Unexpected conversations may acute issues provoke anxiety » Provide coaching closer to when issues occur » Use a wide variety of communication channels » Follow templates in your performance management solution or give free- form coaching » Respond quickly to employee concerns THE MANAGER’S ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GREAT CONVERSATIONS 11