Look for clues in what your boss asks about first, how they spend their time, and what they celebrate in public. Be honest about your assumptions—you might be wrong, which is exactly why this conversation matters.

Ask questions that force specificity: 'What happens if I don't do X?' and 'How will you know this succeeded?' Document everything. This meeting should feel collaborative, not confrontational. You're getting clear, not challenging.

Send the 'As Discussed' email within 24 hours while it's fresh. Use their language back to them. Keep it factual, not emotional. When priorities suddenly shift, reference this email: 'We agreed on X—has that changed?'

Stick to the cadence even when things are smooth. Always surface issues early—your boss wants to hear about blockers from you, not discover them in a crisis. Celebrate wins that align with priorities to show progress.