Managing Difficult Conversations

Successfully prepare for and manage difficult conversations in a way that produces positive outcomes for all parties involved. Difficult conversations are sometimes easier to avoid because of the uncertainty involved in how to confidently lead a difficult conversation. Whether informing a client the project is late and over budget, or presiding over an unsatisfactory performance review — difficult conversations are inevitable and necessary. In fact, difficult conversations appear in all domains of life: work relationships, leadership roles, and personal relationships. Understanding how to have a difficult conversation is a core competency for organizational and personal success. These conversations provide opportunity to create new, effective ways to attain goals and enhance relationships.