Training session
Session 4: Truth early
Can people raise problems while there is still time to act?
Length: 45 to 60 minutes.
Format: short teach, real-work exercise, written
output.
What we will teach
- Early warning.
- Escalation as a tool, not as failure.
- Safe truth.
- How leaders should respond to bad news.
Exercise
Pick a real issue that is currently blocked or at risk. Practice using the Issue Escalation Note template.
Practice both sides: writing the note, and responding to it as a leader. Use the patterns from the guide:
- Good: “Thank you for raising this now. What is the impact? What are our options? What do you recommend?”
- Poor: “Why did you let this happen?”
Output
One better escalation path for a real, current issue.
Facilitator notes
- This is the session where psychological safety either takes root or does not. Watch the room. Notice who is silent.
- Avoid scripted role-play. Use real situations.