difficult-workplace-conversations

1# Difficult Conversations Skill
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3A structured framework for approaching challenging workplace conversations including conflicts, performance issues, sensitive feedback, and emotionally charged discussions.
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5## When to Use This Skill
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7- Preparing for a challenging conversation with a colleague
8- Addressing performance issues with a team member
9- Delivering difficult feedback to a peer or manager
10- Navigating conflict between team members
11- Discussing sensitive topics (salary, promotion, termination)
12- Handling emotional or defensive reactions
13- Following up after difficult discussions
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15## Core Framework: Preparation-Delivery-Followup
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17Difficult conversations succeed or fail based on three phases:
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19### Phase 1: Preparation (Before)
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21**Purpose:** Set yourself up for a productive conversation
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231. **Clarify the Issue**
24   - What specifically happened? (Observable facts only)
25   - What is the impact? (On you, team, work)
26   - What do you need to change?
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282. **Check Your Emotions**
29   - What am I feeling? Why?
30   - Am I calm enough to have this conversation?
31   - What might trigger me during this conversation?
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333. **Consider Their Perspective**
34   - How might they see this situation?
35   - What constraints or pressures might they have?
36   - What do they care about that I can acknowledge?
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384. **Define Your Goal**
39   - What outcome do I want?
40   - What is the minimum acceptable result?
41   - What am I willing to compromise on?
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43### Phase 2: Delivery (During)
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