16th of December – Handling Challenging Conversations

16th of December – Handling Challenging Conversations

So why have we included a lesson on handling challenging conversations in Team Leaders of the future?  From time to time as line managers we have to have those conversations which we perceive are going to be difficult in some way.  Conversations which might be addressing underperformance, tackling unacceptable behaviour, seeking to persuade someone to your point of view or dealing with a sensitive issue.  It can be all too easy to put off having these conversations, fearing how the other person might respond or that our words might not come out right.  Avoidance is not the answer however, and can often lead to things getting worse.

The ability to be able to handle challenging conversations is a core skill of an effective leader and is fundamental to enabling you and your team to perform and work effectively together.