Having difficult conversations

Level – Skilled - for an in-depth understanding of a topic. Aimed at people with good knowledge or experience

One of the most challenging parts of managing people is having conversations around sensitive or emotionally charged topics.

Difficult conversations are often things managers find themselves avoiding or delaying. This can have an impact on an organisation and morale.

Successfully addressing sensitive issues can:

• prevent bullying at work
• deal with conflict between colleagues
• uncover underlying issues
• support workers with personal issues
• create clear boundaries within teams
• increase employee engagement

This training will give you new skills and techniques to confidently handle challenging conversations at work. 

Who is this best suited to?

This training is useful for anyone who wants to develop their skills in managing and communicating. 

It is especially suitable for: 

• supervisors
• line managers
• team leaders
• HR professionals

What will I learn from this training?

• difficult conversations and conflict
• communication skills and questioning techniques
• structuring the conversation
• how to plan and prepare for the discussion
• solutions, follow-up action and support

 By the end of this training, attendees will be able to:

• plan for a difficult conversation  
• describe the main elements of having difficult conversations
• name strategies for managing responses
• apply effective listening and questioning techniques
• recognise and explain the impact of conflict

Key course information

Trainer led – online via Zoom

Duration - 6 hours/full day

The training session will include:

• polls/quizzes
• group discussion
• case studies
• role-plays

Attendees will also receive:

• a digital certificate
• a handout containing useful links
• a copy of the PowerPoint slides

We aim to make our training accessible for everyone. If you have specific accessibility needs, please let us know on your sign-up form.

Closed captions can be turned on for all our sessions run on Zoom.

Run this training for your organisation

This course can also be provided in-house. We can also tailor the programme to suit your precise organisation needs. To speak to our customer services team about your requirements call 0300 123 1150 or complete our online enquiry form.

Does your organisation need more than training?

Our specialists can diagnose issues in your workplace and tailor practical solutions to address the challenges faced by you and your staff. To find out more, contact our Customer Services Team on 0300 123 1150 or complete our online enquiry form.

We also offer free e-learning on a wide range of employment relations topics. It's a great way to develop, enhance and refresh knowledge, providing an opportunity to work through theory, explore case studies and answer interactive questions.