Start with two read-only checks
Ask the agent to run get_connection_status and list_projects. If these tools are missing, first select the right connection or follow the client’s supported refresh/reconnect flow. If they work but the shopping list is absent, review that connection’s selected lists in Task Mafia.
Use capture_items for an explicit shopping request when the tool is actually available and the shopping list is selected. A server capability report is useful evidence, but it does not update tool definitions already cached by the host.
Read the check-in evidence
Permission, reported schedule, observed discovery and active work are different signals. A green connection cannot guarantee a worker is running right now. Look at the recorded check time and the specific setup or recovery action shown in Your agents.
A quiet check can be correct when no eligible work is delegated. An active task still needs its original private run, appropriate host approvals and regular execution check-ins. A waiting question retains responsibility while the person answers.
Recover without creating duplicates
Do not repeatedly add the same items or restart an uncertain external action. Preserve the original mutation ID for an identical retry, check the current task/request state and reconcile the external outcome.
Do not solve a permission error by selecting every list. Share the particular list you intend to use, or keep it private. If private run state is missing, stop and use the human recovery path.
Copy a setup prompt for your agent
Paste this into the client you want to connect. It asks for a capability check and the normal sign-in flow; it does not sign in, install software or grant access by itself.
The prompt does not sign in or grant access by itself.
A clear next step.
Keep the lists you want private, connect the assistant you want to use, and check what it can actually do before giving it work.