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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

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