It was the author Karol K Truman who is credited with the saying, “Feelings buried alive never die”. It’s a sentence that certainly applies to difficult conversations for it is the naïve manager who believes that, given time, awkward issues of behaviour or performance will magically right themselves and that there is no need to intervene in that process.
But this online course is squarely aimed at those who know that such non-intervention by the manager is a foolish tactic. You will already be convinced that such conversations actually have a very positive purpose and can dramatically improve a person’s contribution and motivation.
This online course addresses how to apply a systematic approach to difficult conversations and offers techniques and the right mindset to successfully handle these more delicate exchanges.
The first area that a manager must consider is to understand the nature of the conflict. Why does it happen and what are the principal factors that are driving the disagreement? And how should we mentally prepare ourselves so that we create an open and fair environment in which both parties can swiftly move to a resolution?
Using two mnemonics, PLAN and CLEAR, we suggest how you can organise your thinking and approach to the conversation, and then propose four steps along which the conversation can be pursued. We also suggest phrases that have been repeatedly proven to stimulate openness and mutual respect.
So why not get started now and add this essential skill to your managerial skill set? We promise you that it will not only build your own set of skills in handling these conversations, it will also build your reputation and stature with your colleagues.
