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Duration 7 hours
Course Outline
Introduction
- Factors contributing to the avoidance of necessary professional discussions
- The operational and financial costs of unresolved interpersonal tension and misalignment
- Distinguishing between constructive dialogue and adversarial confrontation
- The leadership disposition required to maintain professional candor
- An analysis of psychological safety within the workplace
The Anatomy of a Difficult Conversation
- Common patterns of communication breakdown in professional settings
- Emotional triggers and reactive behaviors
- Power dynamics and the importance of role clarity
- Differentiating between stated intent and actual impact
Structuring the Conversation
- Defining the primary objective of the interaction
- Preparing a structured framework for the discussion
- Establishing a strong opening and contextual baseline
- Clearly articulating performance and behavioral expectations
- Transitioning from identifying issues to establishing mutual agreements
Managing Emotion and Resistance
- Identifying signs of defensiveness in stakeholders
- Responding to challenging feedback without exacerbating conflict
- Maintaining composure and professional grounding under pressure
- Strategies for de-escalating heightened tensions
- Methods for restoring trust if the conversation derails
Accountability and Follow-Through
- Establishing precise behavioral standards
- Assigning clear ownership and defining implementation timelines
- Maintaining accurate documentation of agreed-upon actions
- Conducting follow-up reviews without excessive oversight
Practice Lab
- Scenario-based role-play simulations
- Structured peer feedback mechanisms
- In-depth coaching debriefs and performance reviews
- Application of concepts to specific government workplace scenarios
Summary and Next Steps
- Common operational pitfalls to avoid in difficult discussions
- Development of individual leadership action plans
- Integrating rigorous communication standards into ongoing leadership practices for government operations
Requirements
- A foundational understanding of basic leadership principles
- Experience managing or leading teams
- Prior experience participating in team meetings or performance discussions
Audience
- Managers and team leads
- HR and People & Culture professionals
- Senior leaders and executives
- Project and program managers
- Any individual responsible for leading conversations that influence performance or direction within government operations