How to have difficult conversations at work
Difficult conversations at work
We offer some tips when you have to have a difficult conversation at work to make you feel more prepared and confident.
Difficult conversations at work can feel daunting, and wanting to avoid them is completely understandable. However, as you progress in your career, these conversations become inevitable. While we may not be able to make you look forward to them, we can certainly provide some tips to help you manage these discussions effectively, learn from them, and enhance your career skills.
Examples of difficult conversations
Difficult conversations can take many forms, including:
Performance reviews: Discussing areas for improvement with a colleague or employee.
Conflict resolution: Addressing disagreements with colleagues and team members.
Feedback delivery: Providing constructive criticism on a project.
Salary negotiations: Discussing pay rises or promotions.
Workload and boundaries: Talking about unrealistic deadlines or expectations.
5 tips for navigating difficult conversations
Be prepared Preparation is key when you anticipate a challenging conversation. As part of your preparation, make sure you:
Gather information: know the facts and figures relevant to the discussion. This will help you present your case clearly.
Practice your points: rehearse what you want to say, focusing on clarity and conciseness. This can help reduce anxiety and ensure you cover all necessary points.
Ask for some time If you find yourself caught off guard, it’s perfectly acceptable to request more time. You might say:
“I appreciate your bringing this up. Can we schedule a time to discuss this further? I want to ensure I give it the attention it deserves.”
“I need a moment to gather my thoughts. Can we revisit this conversation later today?”
See both perspectives Empathy plays a crucial role in difficult conversations. Consider where the other person is coming from:
Are they under pressure from their boss?
Do they have an unrealistic deadline that’s causing stress? Understanding their perspective can help you approach the conversation more collaboratively, even if you need to address issues directly.
Focus on active listening For example:
Maintain eye contact: Show that you are engaged and interested in what the other person is saying.
Paraphrase: Repeat back what you’ve heard to confirm understanding. For example, “So what I’m hearing is…” For more insights on active listening, check out our article on active listening.
Ask open questions Open questions encourage dialogue and can help clarify misunderstandings. Instead of asking, “Why didn’t you finish the report?” try, “What challenges did you face while working on the report?” This approach invites the other person to share their thoughts and feelings, fostering a more productive conversation.
Remember, a difficult professional conversation is distinct from an unprofessional one. If you feel that the discussion is becoming disrespectful or unprofessional, it’s important to recognise that you don’t have to engage in that kind of dialogue.
We hope that by applying these tips, you can navigate difficult conversations with greater confidence and skill.
