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Decisions

How Firm Should a Late Approval Request Sound? Three Versions

Published October 1, 2026

How Firm Should a Late Approval Request Sound? Three VersionsWatch on YouTube, 1:00Oct 1, 2026VideoScriptPractice sheet

Know Exactly What to Say

The full script is below, word for word, for when you need a decision from the client, on the record. Copy it, change the names and dates, and it is ready to send or say.

Practice It Before the Real Conversation

Preview of the practice sheet for How Firm Should a Late Approval Request Sound? Three Versions

A printable PDF. Say the lines out loud, then fill in your own project's names and dates, so the words are yours before the client is on the line.

Download the practice sheet (PDF)

How to Use a Script

Four steps:

  1. Watch the video once.
  2. Copy the script. Change the names, dates, and numbers to match your project.
  3. Say it out loud until it sounds like you. Use the practice sheet if the page has one.
  4. Use it in the real conversation, in the email or on the call.

The Script

Word for word, as said in the video. Copy it and change the names, dates, and numbers to match your project.

ScriptHow Firm Should a Late Approval Request Sound? Three Versions

Option A fits the budget and the January timeline. The approval has not come yet.

Three versions.

  1. A. Friendly. Thanks for reviewing the layouts! Option A fits your budget and keeps us on track for January. If you can give us the green light by Monday, we'll start fabrication on time and lock in that date before it slips.
  2. B. Neutral. Thanks for reviewing the two layout options this week. Based on your comments, Option A fits the budget and keeps the January timeline you asked for. I recommend approving Option A now. Let me know by Monday, so we can keep the January fabrication date.
  3. C. Firm. Option A meets the budget and keeps the January timeline. To hold that date, I need your approval by Monday. A one-line reply is all I need. Without it, the fabrication date moves.

More Decisions Videos

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The next conversation will not sound like this one. The free Decisions pack gives you five more scripts for when you need a decision from the client, on the record, each in friendly, neutral, and firm versions, so the right words are ready before you need them.

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