Phrase library / Status updates & your boss

What to say at work: status updates & your boss

Phrases for progress updates, flagging risks, asking for decisions and getting the most out of 1:1s.

“So I've been working on it, there were some data issues, and I'm kind of getting there…”

“The report is 80% done. I'll send it Thursday.”

Progress plus a date answers your boss's two real questions.

“Just checking in to see if you maybe have a second?”

“Do you have 10 minutes today? I need a decision on the launch date.”

A time box and a clear ask make it easy to say yes.

“Sorry for the delay!”

“Thanks for your patience. Here's the update.”

Thanks keeps the tone positive without putting you on the back foot.

“Things are going okay, I guess.”

“We're on track. One risk: the vendor is late, and here's my plan.”

Naming a risk alongside a plan shows ownership, not worry.

“I hope this is okay…”

“Here's the draft. Can you focus on section 2?”

It points feedback where it matters and signals confidence in the rest.

“I've been super busy.”

“This week I finished the pricing page and closed four support tickets.”

Results show what all that busy actually produced.

“We might miss the deadline, not sure yet.”

“We're at risk of missing Friday. I'll know by Wednesday and confirm then.”

An early, specific warning earns trust. A late surprise loses it.

“What do you want me to do?”

“I see two options. Option A is faster, so that's my pick. Okay to go ahead?”

Bringing a pick with the problem shows judgment.

“Two people asked me for stuff and I don't know what to do.”

“Marketing and Sales both need me Thursday. Which should come first?”

Framing the conflict as a choice lets your boss decide in seconds.

“Is there anything else you need from me?”

“What's the most important thing I can deliver for you this month?”

It aims your effort at what your boss actually values.

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