Roleplay Scenario
Scenario Overview
You’ve realized that your current role doesn’t quite fit with your skills or where you want to go in your career. You want to talk to your manager about possibly changing roles, aiming for a conversation that’s positive and focused on growth.
Roles & Setup
Role A – Employee (You)
Your current role feels out of sync with your skills and career goals.
Your goal: Communicate your desire for a role change constructively, focusing on growth and mutual benefits.
Role B – Manager
You’re unaware of the employee’s misalignment issues. You’re open to discussing career development but need to keep in mind the team’s needs.
Your goal: Understand the employee’s concerns and explore feasible possibilities for a role change.
Suggested Openers
Employee:
- “Can we chat about my current role and where I see myself going? I think there might be a better fit for me within the team.”
- “I’d like to talk about my role and potential growth paths. I’ve been thinking about where I could really add value.”
Manager:
- “Of course, I’m always open to discussing your development. Let’s hear what you’re thinking.”
- “Sure, I’m interested in hearing your thoughts. How do you see your role evolving?”
Sample Roleplay in Action
Employee:
“Thanks for meeting with me. I’ve been thinking about how my current role matches up with my skills and career goals. I think there might be a better fit where I can contribute more effectively.”
Manager:
“I appreciate you bringing this up. Can you tell me more about what you’re experiencing and what changes you’re considering?”
Employee:
“Sure thing. While I’ve learned a lot here, I’ve realized my strengths and interests are more in [specific area]. I think moving to a role that focuses on [specific tasks/responsibilities] could be beneficial for both my growth and the team’s objectives.”
Manager:
“Thanks for being open about this. It’s important to me that your role feels right for you. Let’s look into what opportunities might be available in that area and how we can make it work.”
Employee:
“I’ve looked into some roles within the organization that focus on those responsibilities. I’d love to discuss how they align with our team’s goals and what I might need to do to prepare for such a change.”
Manager:
“That sounds like a good approach. Let’s outline a potential path forward, including any skills you might need to develop or projects you could take on to facilitate this move.”
Employee:
“I appreciate that. I’m committed to ensuring a smooth transition that supports the team’s needs while aligning with my career aspirations.”
Post-Scenario Tools
Curveball Mode (Optional)
Introduce one of these scenarios mid-roleplay to challenge adaptability:
- Manager initially resists the idea due to team resource constraints
- Employee struggles to articulate their strengths and interests effectively
- A new opportunity arises during the conversation that neither had considered
Reflection Checklist
As the Employee:
- Did you express your concerns and desires clearly and constructively?
- Did you focus on growth and mutual benefits rather than dissatisfaction?
- Did you propose potential paths forward?
As the Manager:
- Did you listen actively and validate the employee’s concerns?
- Did you explore possibilities for alignment and growth?
- Did you balance team needs with the employee’s career goals?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing on negative aspects of the current role without proposing solutions
- Avoiding the conversation due to fear of conflict
- Overlooking the importance of aligning individual goals with team objectives
Pro Tip
Approach the conversation with a mindset of collaborative problem-solving. Emphasize mutual benefits and shared goals to create a positive dialogue about career alignment.