Managing Difficult Conversations Training

Managing Difficult Conversations Training

Location: Canberra

You know that knot in your stomach when you need to have "that conversation" with someone at work? Maybe it's addressing poor performance with a team member, dealing with a colleague who keeps missing deadlines, or having to tell your boss their latest idea won't work. We've all been there - avoiding the conversation, hoping the issue will somehow resolve itself, or finally having it and watching it blow up spectacularly.

Here's the thing: difficult conversations don't have to be relationship-ending disasters. With the right approach, they can actually strengthen working relationships and solve problems instead of creating bigger ones. I've been training people in these skills for years, and I've seen countless "impossible" workplace situations turn around when people learn how to navigate tough discussions properly.

This isn't about becoming confrontational or learning to "win" arguments. It's about having honest, productive conversations that get results while maintaining respect and professionalism. You'll learn practical techniques that work in real situations - not theoretical models that fall apart the moment someone gets emotional or defensive.

What You'll Learn

You'll discover how to prepare for difficult conversations without overthinking them into paralysis. We'll cover the exact words and phrases that help de-escalate tension when someone gets upset or angry. You'll practice staying calm and focused when conversations get heated, and learn how to keep discussions on track without sounding like a robot.

We'll work through common scenarios like giving critical feedback, addressing difficult behaviours that affect the whole team, and having conversations about sensitive topics. You'll learn to listen in a way that actually helps people feel heard (even when you disagree with them) and how to find solutions that work for everyone involved.

Most importantly, you'll understand how to follow up after these conversations to make sure changes actually happen and relationships stay intact.

The skills apply everywhere - whether you're a manager who needs to address performance issues, a team member dealing with workplace conflicts, or someone who simply wants to stop avoiding important conversations. You'll leave with confidence to tackle those discussions you've been putting off and a toolkit that works in pressure situations.

The Bottom Line

Stop letting difficult conversations control your stress levels and work relationships. These are learnable skills that will make your working life significantly easier. You'll handle workplace conversations with confidence, solve problems before they escalate, and build stronger professional relationships in the process. No more losing sleep over conversations you need to have tomorrow.