Accountability conversations often come with high stakes and emotions, making them hard to navigate. The following checklist, inspired by Crucial Accountability by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler, will help you stay on track when holding others accountable. Use it before, during, and after conversations to ensure effective results.
Checklist 1: Before the Accountability Conversation
This step helps you prepare to address unmet expectations in a constructive and solution-focused way.
Choose What and If
- What specific expectation was not met (Content)?
- Is this part of a recurring issue (Pattern) or something affecting the relationship (Relationship)?
- Is raising the issue the right thing to do, or is it a matter of your ego?
Clarify the Broken Commitment
- What specific expectation was not met?
- How did this impact me, others, or the project?
Identify the Gap
- What was expected versus what happened?
- Have I confirmed the facts, or do I need more information?
Plan the Conversation
- How can I frame the issue without assigning blame?
- What do I want to achieve from this conversation?
Consider Potential Obstacles
- What reasons might the other person have for not meeting expectations?
- How can I create an environment where they feel safe sharing their perspective?
Prepare to Listen
- Am I ready to listen without judgment?
- How will I respond if they become defensive or emotional?
Checklist 2: During the Accountability Conversation
Use this checklist immediately after the conversation to identify what you did well and where you could improve.
State the Gap Clearly
- Did I clearly describe the gap between expectation and reality?
- Did I focus on facts rather than assumptions or emotions?
- Did I focus on finding a solution when framing the issue?
Maintain Safety
- Did I pay sufficient attention to the other person’s emotional state?
- Did I reassure them that this conversation is about finding a solution, not assigning blame?
Listen Actively
- Did I listen fully to their side without interrupting, or was I distracted by preparing to respond?
- Did I stay calm and manage my own emotions effectively?
Find Mutual Purpose
- Did I steer the conversation toward identifying and accomplishing a shared goal, even during tense moments?
- Did I make sure we both agreed that we were working toward the same solution?
Agree on Next Steps
- Did we agree on specific, measurable actions to close the gap?
- Are the steps clear and feasible for both parties?
Checklist 3: Follow-Up After the Accountability Conversation
Use this checklist to ensure that progress is made and the relationship remains strong.
Monitor Progress
- Are the agreed-upon actions being followed through on?
- Do I need to check in to offer support or clarify any steps?
Assess Results
- Has the situation improved as expected?
- Were there any unexpected challenges that need addressing?
Reinforce Positive Change
- How can I acknowledge the other person’s efforts in meeting expectations?
- Am I providing ongoing feedback to maintain accountability?
Learn from the Experience
- What did I learn from this accountability conversation?
- What can I improve in my approach for next time?
Keep the Dialogue Open
- Is there anything unresolved that requires additional discussion?
- How can we maintain clear communication and accountability moving forward?
How to use the checklists:
Much like in crucial conversations, consistency is key in accountability. Begin by using the checklists regularly, then reduce your reliance as these practices become second nature. The goal is to embed accountability into your daily interactions, leading to better results and stronger relationships.
This checklist can serve as your guide for navigating difficult accountability conversations with clarity and empathy.
