1. The clarity conversation

Do not spend weeks guessing what good looks like. Ask what outcome matters, what trade-offs exist and how your work will be judged.

Try this: “What would a strong result look like here, and what should I prioritise first?”

2. The feedback conversation

Useful feedback is specific and timely. Ask while the work is still recent, and make it easier for the other person to tell you what to repeat or change.

Try this: “What is one thing I did well and one thing that would make the next version stronger?”

3. The visibility conversation

Visibility is not self-promotion without substance. It is helping the right people understand what changed because you contributed.

Try this: “Would it help if I shared a short update on the result, what we learned and the next step?”

4. The growth conversation

Do not wait until promotion season to discuss progression. Ask early enough to understand the evidence, behaviours and scope the next level requires.

Try this: “What would I need to demonstrate consistently to be ready for more responsibility?”

5. The relationship conversation

Strong networks are built before emergencies. Start with curiosity, context and a genuine reason to stay in touch—not a request for a favour.

Try this: “I value how you think about this work. What shaped your approach, and what should someone earlier in their career pay attention to?”

The point is not to sound perfect.

It is to make the conversation easier to start. Adapt the wording to your relationship and workplace, but keep the request clear. A useful career conversation should leave both people knowing what happens next.