Mastering Difficult Conversations
190 words, ~1 minute read
Leaning into difficult conversations builds a culture of trust that is needed for team success.
Why it Matters: Too often we avoid difficult conversations, which typically results in making the situation worse. Clearly communicating expectations allows your team to understand what’s important and rise to meet its goals.
Try It:
Stay Respectful: Reduce defensiveness and increase the likelihood of listening by acknowledging your role in the situation. #sharedproblem
Stay Focused: Be consistent in your message by restating your intentions throughout the conversation. #besteady
Stay Neutral: Separate the individual from their behavior; focus the conversation on the behavior. #itsnotpersonal
Source:
Weeks, H. (2001). Taking the stress out of stressful conversations. Harvard Business Review, 79(7), 112-120.
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