Managing Difficult Conversations

Managing Difficult Conversations

You know that sinking feeling when you need to address someone's poor performance, give tough feedback, or navigate a heated disagreement at work? Your stomach churns, you rehearse what you'll say a hundred times, and somehow it still goes sideways. Whether you're dealing with a defensive team member, having to deliver bad news, or trying to resolve conflict between colleagues, these conversations can make even seasoned managers break out in a cold sweat.

Here's the thing - difficult conversations don't have to be relationship killers or career disasters. When you know how to approach them properly, they actually become opportunities to strengthen trust, solve real problems, and move things forward. This isn't about becoming some corporate robot who speaks in HR-approved phrases. It's about having real, honest conversations that get results without burning bridges.

In this training, we'll tackle the stuff that actually happens in your workplace. Like when Sarah from accounting gets defensive every time you mention her missed deadlines. Or when you need to tell your star performer they're not getting the promotion they expected. We'll work through scenarios where emotions run high, people shut down, or conversations spiral into arguments nobody wins.

You'll learn practical techniques that work in the real world - not textbook theories that fall apart the moment someone raises their voice. We'll cover how to prepare for these conversations so you're not winging it, how to stay calm when things get heated, and most importantly, how to keep the focus on solutions rather than blame. You'll also discover why timing matters so much, how your body language can make or break the conversation, and what to do when someone completely shuts down on you.

What You'll Learn

How to prepare for difficult conversations without over-rehearsing yourself into a panic. We'll show you a simple framework that keeps you focused on what really matters. You'll practice effective communication techniques that help people feel heard, even when you're delivering news they don't want to hear.

The art of staying calm and focused when emotions escalate - both yours and theirs. You'll learn specific phrases and approaches that de-escalate tension instead of making it worse. We'll also cover how to set clear boundaries and expectations without sounding like you're reading from a policy manual.

How to follow up after difficult conversations to ensure real change happens. Because let's face it, having the conversation is only half the battle. You'll learn how to monitor progress and accountability in ways that support people rather than micromanage them.

The Bottom Line

This isn't about becoming perfect at difficult conversations - it's about getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. You'll walk away with practical tools you can use immediately, plus the confidence to address issues before they become bigger problems. Most importantly, you'll stop avoiding these conversations and start seeing them as a normal part of being an effective leader. Available in Brisbane.