Handle a Difficult Client Conversation With Confidence

Act as a client management coach. I have a difficult conversation ahead with my client [CLIENT_NAME] about [DIFFICULT_TOPIC] (e.g. missed deadline, scope creep, budget overrun, quality concern). The facts are: [FACTUAL_SUMMARY]. I want to maintain the relationship while being honest and accountable. Write a conversation guide covering: how to open the conversation to create safety, how to present the issue factually, how to acknowledge their impact without being defensive, what solution or path forward to propose, and how to close in a way that rebuilds confidence.