BE 585: Is It Time to Hustle at Work? How to Talk to Your Staff

Professional communication requires specific strategies when requesting that colleagues or staff increase their pace on projects. Phrases like "pick up the pace" serve as neutral options for general use, whereas "hustle" leverages a friendly, sports-inspired connotation that often feels less demanding. Conversely, expressions like "get a move on" risk sounding abrupt or rude, necessitating careful tone management to maintain workplace rapport. "Put the pedal to the metal" offers a lighthearted, imagery-rich alternative for less formal settings. Successfully navigating these requests involves assessing the relationship between speakers and the urgency of the deadline. Managing a sudden shift in project timelines—such as preparing for a significant upcoming absence—highlights the practical application of these terms to ensure team alignment and project completion without damaging professional connections.