Having difficult conversations

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Some things are really difficult to say and hear. This all comes down to our fears of:

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• offending someone

• getting an emotional reaction

• knowing that you’ve already put it off for too long

• not knowing how to make your point truthfully, helpfully and kindly

• not wanting to hear what the other person may say

• admitting to a mistake

• apologising

• being punished or rejected

• asking for something and not getting it

 

Your difficult conversation may be with one of your team, a colleague or a more senior person (including your board). Regardless of who you’re talking with, difficult conversations require advanced listening, verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and emotional intelligence. They also require careful thought and preparation.

 

At Communication Counts we offer masterclasses, on-line training and individual coaching on how to prepare, practically and psychologically, for any difficult conversation in your workplace. After you’ve worked with us, you’ll feel confident, calm and resilient enough to have any conversation, no matter the audience and how difficult the subject. All our programmes can be tailored to your organisation’s goals and values.