Managing Difficult Conversations

Managing Difficult Conversations

You know that sinking feeling when you need to tell someone their work isn't up to scratch, or when a team member keeps missing deadlines and you've been putting off the conversation for weeks? We've all been there. Most of us would rather clean the office toilets than sit down and have those uncomfortable workplace chats that everyone's been avoiding.

Here's the thing - difficult conversations don't get easier by avoiding them. They just get more difficult. And meanwhile, problems fester, team morale drops, and you're left dealing with bigger issues down the track. The good news is that with the right approach, these conversations can actually strengthen relationships and solve problems rather than create drama.

In this practical workshop, you'll learn how to navigate those tricky workplace discussions with confidence. We're talking about real situations here - not textbook scenarios. Like when Sarah from accounts keeps interrupting everyone in meetings, or when your star performer suddenly starts showing up late every day. These are the conversations that keep managers awake at night, but they don't have to.

You'll discover how to prepare for these discussions so you're not winging it, how to stay calm when emotions run high, and most importantly, how to focus on solutions rather than blame. We'll cover the difference between being direct and being harsh, because there's a sweet spot that gets results without destroying relationships.

The techniques you'll learn work whether you're dealing with workplace communication breakdowns, performance issues, or those awkward conversations about personal hygiene that nobody wants to have. You'll also get practical strategies for when conversations go sideways - because let's face it, they sometimes do.

What You'll Learn

How to plan difficult conversations so you're not caught off guard when emotions flare up. You'll know exactly what to say and how to say it without sounding like a robot reading from a script.

Techniques for staying composed when the other person gets defensive, angry, or starts crying. Because these things happen, and you need to know how to handle them professionally.

The art of listening actively during tense moments, even when you disagree with what's being said. This skill alone will transform how people respond to you.

How to focus conversations on specific behaviors and outcomes rather than personality traits or character judgments that just make people defensive.

Strategies for following up after difficult conversations to ensure real change happens and relationships stay intact.

The Bottom Line

After this training, those conversations you've been dreading will become manageable discussions that actually solve problems. You'll have the confidence to address issues early before they become major headaches, and your team will respect you for being direct but fair. Available in Brisbane and online sessions.