Leadership Bites Series 2: Session 7 – Preparing for Difficult Conversations

”Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and freedom.” – Viktor E. Frankl

Navigating difficult conversations is a crucial skill for effective leadership. At the heart of this skill is the recognition that we are all people working with people and therefore understanding how to help ourselves help others is key. 

In this session, we will explore the concept of Humanity in Leadership as we prepare for difficult conversations. We will delve into the idea that all individuals have purposes, concerns, and circumstances that shape their perspectives and how they come into the conversation with us. Taking a moment to consider these elements, even at a high level, can unlock your thinking when preparing for those hard conversations.  

During this session, we will consider how we feel thinking about upcoming conversations we are not confident about and how we can manage our own reactions into responses – and how this can help us prepare to connect more effectively with those we are preparing to meet. 

By the end of this session, you will be able to: – 

• Describe the ‘power of the pause’ and why it’s important 

• Explain how this is relevant to your role 

• Identify one step you will take to improve your communication as a leader 

This event is suitable for both those who do and who do not manage teams.  

Please note there are limited spaces available on these sessions.   

Read our launch blog to learn more about the series Leadership Bites – an answer to a known appetite? 

Missed any of our Leadership Bites?

Check our resources page for our Leadership Bites Takeaway which include a recording of the topic or model covered – usually posted within 2 weeks of the event and a valuable tool for your own development or use with your team.