What are three techniques for approaching difficult conversations?

Martin Leuw’s Three Tips for Managing a Difficult Conversation
  • Take the bad with the good. Balance whatever you have to say that’s difficult with something positive for the employee to go away with.
  • Don’t Make it Personal.
  • Offer Support and Leadership.

How do you mentally prepare for a difficult conversation?

Here are five strategies that can help:
  1. Begin from a place of curiosity and respect. Stop worrying about being liked.
  2. Focus on what you hear, not what you say. You don’t actually need to talk that much during a difficult conversation.
  3. Be direct.
  4. Don’t put it off.
  5. Expect a positive outcome.

How do you stay calm in a difficult conversation?

Adapted from
  1. Breathe. Simple mindfulness techniques can be your best friend in tense situations and none is more straightforward and accessible than using your breath.
  2. Focus on your body.
  3. Try saying a mantra.
  4. Acknowledge and label your feelings.
  5. Take a break.

Why do I avoid difficult conversations?

The top reasons we tend to avoid conflict is because we want to feel “safe” and make sure we are liked and supported by others, or we care about others and the way they feel, or we are tired of explaining ourselves. Difficult conversations don’t have to become an argument or end in discord.

How do you start a serious conversation over text?

How do you deal with unpleasant conversations?

How to start a conversation over text
  1. Send an honest compliment.
  2. Make a reference to something that they mentioned.
  3. Let them know that you are thinking about them.
  4. The cliffhanger text.
  5. Send a GIF, meme or emoji.
  6. The teasing text.
  7. The light and casual text.

How do you deal with uncomfortable conversations?

6 steps to help you tackle difficult conversations
  1. Listen up.
  2. Be clear about how you feel and what you want.
  3. Look at the issue from their perspective.
  4. If things aren’t going to plan, take a break.
  5. Agree to disagree.
  6. Look after yourself.

How do you handle conversation?

Awkward conversation is never comfortable, but there are steps you can take to make one less embarrassing.
  1. Avoid the silence.
  2. Speak in a private setting.
  3. Sit.
  4. Offer a warning.
  5. Acknowledge your discomfort.
  6. Be polite, yet direct.
  7. Be an active listener.
  8. Draw the conversation to a clear close.