Having Difficult Conversations: A Guide for Managers

Introduction

• Leadership skills and mindsets for difficult conversations

1. Understanding and Overcoming Conversation Barriers

• Your conversation style
• Overcome the main barrier to difficult conversations

2. Difficult Conversations Are Part of the Job

• How to know it's time for a conversation
• Managing emotions
• How to address avoided issues

3. Massive Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid online communication mistakes
• Stop playing power of attorney
• Stop fixing and rescuing
• Prevent getting distracted and losing control

4. Mindsets That Expand Conflict Competency

• Mindsets: Growth versus fixed
• Replace assumptions with curiosity

5. Strategic Communication Skills

• Set the expectations from the start
• Mapping out difficult conversations
• Discerning the real issue
• Listen to own the conversation
• Create a fresh start

6. Making Tough Calls

• Create a culture of accountability
• Making good decisions