The Meeting Matters Team · 2026-10-13
Managers are often the first to notice that someone is struggling, and the first to be unsure what to say. You do not need to be a counsellor. Your role is to notice, to open the door kindly and to point toward the right support.
Notice the Change
Look for changes from the person's normal: more withdrawn or irritable, missing deadlines, arriving late, looking exhausted, or a drop in the quality of work. A change is a reason to check in, not a reason to assume.
Choose the Right Moment
Speak privately, without an audience and without a rush. Do not do it in front of the team or in the middle of a deadline. Pick a time when you can listen.
Start Gently
- "I've noticed you seem under a lot of pressure lately. How are you doing?"
- "You don't have to tell me anything you don't want to, but I want you to know I'm here."
- "Is there anything that would make work easier right now?"
Listen More Than You Talk
Let the person speak. Do not interrupt, rush to fix, or compare it to your own experience. Simply acknowledging what they say, for example "That sounds really hard", is often enough.
What to Avoid
- Diagnosing or guessing what is wrong
- Promising confidentiality you cannot keep
- Telling them to "just relax" or "be strong"
- Sharing what they told you with the team
- Making the conversation about performance only
Point to Confidential Support
If your organisation has an Employee Assistance Program, tell the person it exists, that it is confidential, and how to reach it. Offer to help them make the first contact if they want. If they may be at risk of harming themselves, take it seriously and seek urgent professional help.
Follow Up
Check in again after a few days. Small, consistent support builds trust. Look after your own wellbeing too: managers also need somewhere to talk. For wider context, read our guide for HR and workplace burnout guide.
Talk to Us About an EAP
Meeting Matters Global, the corporate arm of The Meeting Matters, designs Employee Assistance Programs for organisations in Pakistan, led by Mr. Naushad Anjum (CEO) and Mr. Faisal Mumtaz Rao (COO). We are introducing our EAP in Karachi and also serve organisations in Lahore and Islamabad. Message us on WhatsApp (+92 333 3450786) or email info@themeetingmatters.com for a short needs conversation and a written proposal. There is no obligation.