Managing Difficult Conversations in the Workplace - Perth

Managing Difficult Conversations in the Workplace - Perth

You know that sinking feeling when you realize you need to have "that conversation" with a team member? The one you've been putting off for weeks because you're not sure how they'll react, or worse, you're worried it'll make things even more awkward around the office. We've all been there - whether it's addressing poor performance, giving tough feedback, or dealing with someone who just doesn't seem to get along with the rest of the team.

Here's the thing about difficult conversations: they don't get easier by avoiding them. In fact, they usually get worse. That person who's consistently missing deadlines? They're probably affecting team morale more than you realize. The colleague who interrupts everyone in meetings? Your other team members are likely frustrated and starting to disengage.

This isn't one of those courses where we'll tell you to "just be positive" and hope for the best. Instead, you'll learn practical techniques that actually work in real workplace situations. We'll cover how to prepare for tough conversations so you're not flying blind, how to stay calm when emotions run high, and most importantly, how to have these discussions in a way that actually solves problems rather than creating new ones.

You'll practice with scenarios you probably face every week - like when someone's personal issues are affecting their work, when you need to correct a long-term employee who thinks they know better, or when you have to deliver news that nobody wants to hear. We'll also tackle those especially tricky situations, like when you're dealing with someone who gets defensive immediately, or when cultural differences make communication more complex.

The reality is that avoiding difficult conversations doesn't make you a nice manager - it makes you an ineffective one. Your high performers get frustrated when problems aren't addressed, and issues that could be resolved with one honest conversation end up festering for months. You'll discover how to approach these situations with confidence, knowing you have a clear framework that keeps conversations productive rather than destructive.

What You'll Learn:

How to prepare for difficult conversations so you're not caught off guard by emotional reactions or unexpected responses. You'll learn what questions to ask yourself beforehand and how to anticipate different scenarios.

Specific phrases and techniques for starting tough conversations without putting people immediately on the defensive. We'll practice opening statements that set the right tone from the beginning.

How to stay composed when conversations get heated or emotional. You'll learn breathing techniques and mental strategies that keep you grounded even when the other person is upset.

Ways to redirect conversations back on track when they start going sideways. Sometimes people will try to change the subject, blame others, or bring up unrelated issues - you'll know how to handle all of these situations.

Techniques for ending conversations on a positive note with clear next steps. The goal isn't just to survive the conversation, but to ensure real change happens afterward.

How to follow up effectively after difficult conversations to ensure the issues are actually resolved. Many managers have the conversation but then never check back in, which means nothing really changes.

The Bottom Line:

After this training, you'll no longer dread those tough conversations that come with managing people. You'll have a proven framework for approaching sensitive topics, practical language that de-escalates rather than inflames situations, and the confidence to address issues promptly before they become bigger problems. Most importantly, you'll see how having these conversations skillfully actually improves your relationships with team members rather than damaging them. When people know you'll address issues directly and fairly, they respect you more, not less. This training will help you become the kind of manager who creates a culture where problems get solved quickly and teams function more smoothly.

The course includes plenty of practice time with real scenarios, so you'll leave feeling prepared rather than just informed. You'll also get reference materials you can use back at work when you're preparing for your next difficult conversation. Whether you're a new supervisor or an experienced manager who wants to handle these situations more effectively, this practical training will give you tools you'll use every week. Remember, great managers aren't the ones who avoid tough conversations - they're the ones who know how to have them skillfully.