Difficult Conversations
​Say the Hard Thing.
Expert guidance for the workplace conversations
that make or break trust, performance, and morale.
Every leader eventually reaches a moment when being honest and being comfortable can't happen at the same time. With the right skills, you can hold conversations like the ones below without alienating anyone. And when that moment comes, you'll be ready for it.
Setting or enforcing boundaries
Naming acceptable behavior limits, and being responsive when they’re not honored.
Addressing a skill or competency gap
They're trying, but the results still aren't there. Something needs to be said, and that responsibility is yours.
Giving feedback across a tricky power dynamic
Speaking honestly about performance with a peer or someone who is, or used to be, senior to you.
Finally addressing a pattern you let go on too long
The issue has been there for months but you haven’t addressed it. Now you have to name the role you both played in it.
Telling someone their self-image doesn't match their performance
They believe they're a top performer, but their work is lacking. You need to clarify that gap and close it honestly.
Re-engaging someone who has checked out
They’re capable, but something has shifted; their performance isn’t matching their potential.
Hard Conversations,
Handled With Skill
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Most people don't avoid difficult conversations because they don't care. They avoid them because they don't want to harm the relationship, or because no one ever taught them how to have one well.
I help leaders and team members build the language, the timing, and the confidence these moments require. Make sure you're not skipping one simply because you don't know where to start.
