I often have to pass on bad news in my job. For example, if we realize that there is a problem and estimates need to be pushed. Or if I'm mentoring someone, s

I often have to pass on bad news in my job. For example, if we realize that there is a problem and estimates need to be pushed. Or if I'm mentoring someone, sometimes I have to adjust their perception of their performance. In many cases I've tried to lead in with casual conversation, then break the bad news. This seems to work very poorly. Instead it is better to lead in with the bad news, deal with the fallout and then finish on an up note. I've never really understood why this order is more effective, but it makes sense to me now. Very interesting.