Difficult Conversations Made Easy – Part 2 – During the Conversation

Summary

In the previous episode we talked about how to prepare for difficult conversations, today the topic is how to manage a difficult conversations while you are in the midst of it, to ensure that the outcome is optimal.

We looked at the six steps to take to prepare for the conversation, they included among others, to have a clear goal, to check your assumptions, and to try to understand and anticipate the other party’s goals and needs.

Let’s imagine that you are now having that so called difficult conversation. Perhaps you are connected virtually by video conference. How do you start? First focus on creating trust

Have a positive mindset  – assume the positive

Communicate empathy and a will to collaborate and understand – avoid judgmental statements

Communicate the topic / purpose clearly

Give the other person room to clarify the purpose and their perspective

Manage your emotions

Listen for facts, feelings and values/ needs communicated

Don’t overwhelm them with detail and arguments

Look for commonalities – find an alignment

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