Your first call: conversation starters that aren’t awkward

The first call with a new accountability partner can feel a bit like a blind date, minus the wine. You both want it to go well, and neither of you knows quite how to start.

Good news: you don’t need to be charming. You need a few good questions and a loose plan.

A simple plan for the first 30 minutes

1. Ten minutes: who are you?

Not your CV. What you’re working on, why now, and what a normal week looks like for you.

2. Ten minutes: the goals

Each of you explains your goal and what “done” looks like. Ask each other questions. Curiosity is the best first sign of a good partner.

3. Ten minutes: how you’ll work together

When do you check in, how, and for how long? Agree on a four-week trial. That’s it for now. You can make it official later with our pact worksheet.

Twelve conversation starters

Pick three or four. You don’t need all of them.

1. What made you sign up for Pactful?
2. What would be different in your life if you reached this goal?
3. What have you already tried, and what got in the way?
4. When in the week do you usually lose momentum?
5. Do you prefer a gentle nudge or a straight question?
6. What’s a small win you had recently?
7. Who else knows about your goal?
8. What does a really good week look like for you?
9. What’s the one thing you’re most likely to procrastinate on?
10. How do you like to celebrate progress?
11. What should I do if you go quiet for a week?
12. What are you curious about that has nothing to do with your goal?

End on something concrete

Before you hang up, agree on the date of your next check-in. Put it in both your calendars while you’re still talking. A next date is the difference between “that was nice” and an actual pact.

Want these as cards to cut out? Download the printable below.