If HR says “can we just have a quick chat” — use these exact words before you say anythinsay anything else #theunobsolete

If HR says to you, can we have a quick chat? Use these exact words before you say anything else. That quick chat is probably not a chat. It's a meeting with no witness, no record, and no protection. And whatever you say, maybe you used to build a case against you. And I need you to understand that before you walk into that room. So before you say one word, you say this. I want to be cooperative and I will absolutely meet with you. Can you tell me the purpose of this meeting in advance so that I can come prepared? Then you follow up by email immediately and you write. Per our conversation, I understand we're meeting on whatever the date is regarding whatever they told you it was. Please let me know if there's anything that I should bring. Now you have a record. Now they have to tell you what it's about. And now HR knows that you know you are not being difficult. You are being documented. There is a difference. And that email could be the most important thing that you ever sent. Say this now, screenshot the words and follow. Because I will keep giving you what they hope you will never find out. Build what they can't take.