Challenging Conversations
Do you want to take the angst out of preparing for uncomfortable conversations? We worry that failed conversations will impact negatively on everyone involved, or even make things worse. However, when handled well a challenging conversation allows you to broach a diffi cult topic before it becomes a bigger issue, provides an opportunity to increase trust, and can improve the relationship.
Registrations are now open for the Challenging Conversations Workshop in 2025.
There are 18 places available in each Workshop.
Full-day Workshop
In this 1-day workshop we will look at challenging conversations: what they are, what stops us having them, and the factors that influence successful delivery.
We will also experiment with preparing for an actual challenging conversation you need to have, so you can practice in a safe and supportive learning environment.
- Learn how to prepare for an uncomfortable conversation.
- Understand why it is unkind (and unfair) to tell half-truths and set vague expectations.
- Know what is required to create psychological safety – and recreate it if lost.
- Understand when different types of conversations are needed.
- Evaluate the impact of avoiding challenging conversations.
Delivered virtually, the registration fee is $450+GST per person, which includes pre and post work, and workshop participation. A 10% deposit is payable on registration, with the balance payable one month prior to the workshop.
Programs can also be scheduled for a date to suit your group of 18 - delivered face-to-face, or facilitated virtually.
Feedback from Workshop Participants (2023-2024)
“An excellent workshop that really gave me the tools to manage challenging conversations.”
“So good to be able to collaborate and hear from others,getting ideas and feedback. Learning about my own triggers and use this to be able to build my confidence in my ability to have compassionate conversations going forward.”
“The structure of the day. Breaking down key factors surrounding these conversations. Listening to others and hearing them share the same triggers and emotions they experience.”
“All new leaders need to know how to effectively address these situations.””
+ Extra Support (available at an additional cost)
Sample Program
One-Day Workshop
February
Full day face-to-face workshop for up to 18 people.
To teach skills and build confidence to hold a challenging conversation.
Small Group Coaching
Apr/Jun/Aug/Oct
60-minute group coaching sessions, in small groups of 6.
Led by an ICF-Certified Coach, you will be supported to develop and embed skills. Participating in small group coaching sessions with your peers, you will learn from the collective wisdom of the group. Coaching uses an action learning approach and at the end of each session you will clarify an action you are taking away. Between sessions, you will be encouraged to experiment with new tools and behaviours.
1:1 Coaching
Mar/May/Jul
30-minute 1:1 virtual mentor coaching sessions.
You will work 1:1 with an ICF-Accredited Mentor Coach, to develop skill, celebrate success, and explore challenges. Your mentor coach will help you sharpen your skills and develop your capability.
Accountability Buddy
Ongoing
Self-paced practice with a peer.
Participants will be required to make personal commitments to action, experiment between sessions & reflect continuously.
Working together, they will share and hold each other accountable.
Delivery
- The program will normally run over a period of 6-10 months. The structure above is an example only.
- Up to 18 participants can be registered for the Coaching Conversations Program.
- For face-to-face delivery, the venue is to be organised by the client, noting that a well-chosen venue can enhance the experience.
- The full-day workshop will be scheduled in consultation with the organisation for a date that suits the group.
- 6 participants will be allocated to each small group. A smaller group size guarantees participants a high degree of interaction, and individual attention.
- Small group coaching sessions will be scheduled in consultation with the organisation for dates/times that suit the group.
- Pre-work and other supporting resources will be provided throughout the program.
- To maintain participant confidentiality, small group coaching sessions are not recorded.
- Small group coaching sessions can be delivered virtually (via Zoom) or face-to-face.
Philosophy
To provide a supportive and collaborative environment for leaders to undertake professional development that generates a lasting impact on both the individuals involved and the organisations they lead, in terms of skill enhancement and the creation of sustainable learning communities.
Feedback From Participants
~ Workshop Participants, 2020/2021/2022/2023/2024 ~
“An excellent workshop that really gave me the tools to manage challenging conversations.”
“So good to be able to collaborate and hear from others, getting ideas and feedback. Learning about my own triggers and use this to be able to build my confidence in my ability to have compassionate conversations going forward.”
“The structure of the day. Breaking down key factors surrounding these conversations. Listening to others and hearing them share the same triggers and emotions they experience.”
I was a little concerned about the day and how formal it would be. I appreciate the approach taken and look forward to future sessions.”
“There is so much I took away. The FOCUS template to prepare for conversation was helpful. It was also helpful to shift the thinking from a negative conversation to a positive thought process and being open to learning.
“It was honest and supportive of what we can achieve.”
“Shared learning with research is the best learning.”
“I think anyone can learn, no matter their experience level.”
“All new leaders need to know how to effectively address these situations.”
“Very interesting, insightful and will leave with some immediate actions in toolkit.”
I am dedicated to unlocking the potential of individuals and teams.
My commitment is to ensure you get the most out of the time and money you invest.
Shifting Mindset
As a leader, you have a responsibility to deliver difficult messages. We will explore the shift from “difficult conversation” to “compassionate conversation”.
Tools to Help You
We will introduce a structure to help you prepare – to say what needs to be said, with a focus on shared understanding and co-creation.
Skills to Help You
Developing fundamental skills for compassionate communication (listening to understand, overcoming assumptions and managing your emotions).
