Roleplay Scenario
Scenario Overview
Your team is facing a misalignment with another department that could jeopardize a project deadline. The other team is working under different assumptions, and it’s putting the timeline at risk. You need to escalate the issue to your manager to get everyone on the same page, while keeping the conversation constructive and avoiding blame.
Roles & Setup
Role A – Team Lead (You)
You’ve noticed the misalignment and need to bring it up.
Your goal: Explain the issue clearly, suggest possible solutions, and seek alignment without pointing fingers.
Role B – Department Manager
You manage several teams, including the ones involved. Your role is to help resolve the situation.
Your goal: Understand the problem, guide the discussion, and help find a way forward.
Role C – Peer Team Lead (Optional)
You lead the team with the differing assumptions.
Your goal: Address the concerns, understand how your team’s work fits in, and work toward a resolution.
Role D – Stakeholder (Optional)
You have a vested interest in the project’s success.
Your goal: Ensure the project stays on track and meets its objectives.
Suggested Openers
Team Lead:
- “I wanted to talk about a potential misalignment that’s affecting our timeline. Can we figure out how to address this together?”
- “We’ve run into some differing assumptions with [Team B] that might impact our project. Let’s see how we can realign.”
Department Manager:
- “Thanks for bringing this up. Let’s get into the details and see how we can fix it.”
- “I appreciate you bringing this to my attention. Let’s discuss and find a way forward.”
Peer Team Lead:
- “I wasn’t aware of the impact. Let’s go over our assumptions and see what we can adjust.”
- “I’m open to aligning better. Can you explain the concerns you’re seeing?”
Stakeholder:
- “Thanks for the heads-up. I’m eager to understand how this affects our goals and what we can do to stay on track.”
- “I appreciate you escalating this. Let’s make sure we’re all aligned on priorities.”
Sample Roleplay in Action
Team Lead:
“Hey everyone, thanks for coming. I’ve noticed a misalignment between our team and [Team B] about the project’s deliverables. Our timelines don’t match up, and I’d like to address it now before it causes any delays.”
Department Manager:
“Thanks for letting me know. Can you give me a bit more detail on where the disconnect is happening?”
Team Lead:
“Sure thing. Our team has been working towards a deadline based on initial discussions. However, it seems [Team B] has prioritized something different, which is affecting our schedule.”
Peer Team Lead:
“I get it. We’ve been focusing on [Feature X] because of a recent directive. Let’s see how we can better align our efforts.”
Team Lead:
“Exactly. If we can clarify priorities and adjust timelines where needed, I think we can get back on track. What steps should we take?”
Department Manager:
“Let’s set up a joint session to realign our priorities. I’ll facilitate, and we can include any other stakeholders if needed.”
Stakeholder:
“That sounds good. I want to ensure the project meets business needs, so let me know if you need my input.”
Team Lead:
“Great. I’ll work with [Peer Team Lead] to get ready for the session. Thanks, everyone, for helping resolve this.”
Post-Scenario Tools
Curveball Mode (Optional)
Throw in one of these challenges to see how participants adapt:
- The peer team lead insists their priorities can’t change.
- The stakeholder expresses surprise and frustration at the delay.
- New information changes the scope of the issue.
Reflection Checklist
As the Team Lead:
- Did you present the issue clearly and constructively?
- Did you involve all relevant parties in the discussion?
- Did you suggest solutions or remain open to suggestions?
As the Department Manager:
- Did you facilitate a productive dialogue?
- Did you help define the problem without assigning blame?
- Did you guide the conversation toward actionable next steps?
As the Peer Team Lead:
- Did you remain open to feedback and collaboration?
- Did you express your team’s priorities clearly?
- Did you contribute to finding a resolution?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing on blame instead of solutions
- Escalating without enough context or preparation
- Ignoring the perspectives of other teams
Pro Tip
Effective escalation is about fostering collaboration and alignment, not just pointing out problems. Approach the discussion with a mindset of partnership and focus on shared goals.