MAMAGING PEOPLE:
HOW TO HAVE A DIFFICULT CONVERSATION

LCDP Program > Workshop 3

CONTEXT

Have you ever wondered how to approach a colleague with a difficult issue? Have you been avoiding having a conversation with someone because you just don’t know how to deliver a message that you believe won’t be heard? Have you had difficult conversations with others in the past that just didn’t go the way you had hoped? Have you put off that performance discussion with an employee or that talk with your boss because you just don’t know how to put your expectations into words?

Many people dread having a conversation with another person that may prove to be difficult because it offers criticism, bad news, or touches upon a delicate issue that no one wants to discuss. In the work environment, managers and supervisors in particular are faced with these types of difficult conversations around performance on an almost daily basis. However, done right, difficult conversations can be extremely productive and help people and organizations to move forward on achieving their goals.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

• The complexities and components of having a difficult conversation
• How to prepare for having a difficult conversation
• Setting the stage for a successful discussion
• The skills required to communicate with people under less than ideal circumstances
• The different types of people you are likely to encounter and tips and techniques on how to deal with them
• How to arrive at a win-win conclusion
• The importance of follow-up after the discussion is over
• What supports are available to you as a manager/supervisor

WHAT YOU WILL TAKE AWAY

• Tips and techniques that will help you have productive discussions with your staff, your boss, your colleagues, and your friends and family!
• A workbook, exercises and handouts

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT COMPETENCIES

Engagement - Mobilizing people, organizations, partners
Excellence – Delivering results through relationships with colleagues, clients, users and superiors