Respond to a change
What should we check before interrupting the report? Explain your reasons and next step.
What should we check before interrupting the report? Explain your reasons and next step.
1 · Notice the conversation
Colleague: What should we check before interrupting the report?
You: We should confirm the new task’s deadline before changing the plan.
Colleague: How would that information help?
You: This helps us decide whether the current time block needs to move.
Colleague: What should we preserve in the revised plan?
You: We should use buffer time carefully and keep a final check of the report.
2 · Understand what each phrase does
time block
set aside a period for one task
I will use a one-hour time block for the report.
time block 是安排一段时间，不保证一定能完成；仍要结合任务大小和实际进展调整。deadline
the latest time something must be finished
The deadline is three on Friday.
deadline 是最晚完成时间，不是开始时间；by Friday 表示不晚于周五。buffer time
keep some extra time for delays
I will allow twenty minutes of buffer time for checking.
buffer time 用于吸收不确定性，不等于必须拖到最后，也不代表可以忽略真正的截止时间。3 · Rehearse, then change the details
We should confirm the new task’s deadline before changing the plan.
This helps us decide whether the current time block needs to move.
We should use buffer time carefully and keep a final check of the report.
If the work no longer fits, we should agree which task can move.
Keep the purpose; change the person, document or time. A simple, accurate sentence is enough.
4 · Respond to your colleague
What should we check before interrupting the report?
第一步：先核实新任务的截止时间。
See one possible reply
We should confirm the new task’s deadline before changing the plan.
How would that information help?
作用：根据真实期限判断是否重排。
See one possible reply
This helps us decide whether the current time block needs to move.
What should we preserve in the revised plan?
取舍：可使用部分缓冲，但保留关键核查。
See one possible reply
We should use buffer time carefully and keep a final check of the report.
5 · Try a different situation
What if both deadlines are fixed?
What if both deadlines are fixed?
Address the changed condition. Choose a practical next step and explain why it helps.
- My response addresses the changed condition.
- I explain one practical action and its likely effect.
- I make the next step clear.
6 · Recall without the model tomorrow
What should we ask about the new task?