Overview

Before even getting to a difficult conversation, the first step is to understand more about difficult conversations, including yourself. We’ll talk about various aspects of the conversations, including how to recognize barriers to constructive conversations that others or yourself may present. There will also be opportunities to improve on some of the barriers that you face, so that you can be as well-prepared as possible going into the conversations.

A silhouette of a person deep in contemplation

Conversations all around us

We are constantly engaged in conversations; sometimes these conversations go well, other times the outcomes of these are less than ideal.

A group of people having a lively workplace discussion

Learning activities: Discussion

Intention: Reflect on what makes conversations good and challenging.

Instruction: Write down a few words that describe your feelings about difficult conversations. What happens when a conversation is going well? Consider what you hear, see, and feel.

Write your answers on Slack.