Managing Difficult Conversations - Melbourne

Managing Difficult Conversations - Melbourne

You know that sinking feeling when you need to have "that conversation" with a team member, colleague, or boss? The one you've been putting off for weeks because you're not sure how it'll go? Whether it's addressing poor performance, discussing a sensitive workplace issue, or delivering unwelcome news, we've all been there. Most of us weren't taught how to navigate these tricky waters, and let's be honest - winging it rarely works out well.

Here's the thing I've learned after years of watching managers and employees struggle with this: difficult conversations don't have to be as painful as we make them. In fact, when handled properly, they can actually strengthen relationships and solve problems faster than you'd expect. The key is knowing how to structure them, what to say when emotions run high, and how to keep things productive when the other person gets defensive or upset.

In this practical session, we'll tackle the conversations you've been avoiding. We'll work through real scenarios - like telling someone their work isn't meeting standards, addressing inappropriate behaviour, or having to deliver bad news about budget cuts or restructuring. You'll learn how to prepare for these discussions so you feel confident going in, not like you're walking into a minefield.

I'll show you techniques for staying calm when the other person raises their voice, gets emotional, or tries to deflect blame. We'll practice how to be direct without being harsh, and how to listen in a way that actually helps resolve issues rather than escalate them. You'll discover why most difficult conversations go wrong (hint: it's usually what we do in the first two minutes) and how to set them up for success from the start.

What You'll Learn

You'll master a simple framework for structuring any difficult conversation so you never feel lost or unsure what to say next. We'll cover how to state your concerns clearly without putting people on the defensive, and how to keep the focus on solutions rather than blame. You'll practice active listening techniques that help the other person feel heard, even when you're delivering tough feedback.

We'll work through handling common reactions like anger, tears, denial, or silence, so you're prepared for whatever comes up. You'll learn when to push forward and when to take a break, how to document these conversations properly, and how to follow up in a way that ensures real change happens. Plus, we'll cover the legal and HR considerations you need to keep in mind.

The Bottom Line

After this training, you'll actually look forward to clearing the air instead of letting issues fester. You'll have the tools to address problems early before they become bigger headaches, and you'll know how to have these conversations in a way that maintains respect and often improves working relationships. Most importantly, you'll stop avoiding the discussions that need to happen, because you'll finally know how to handle them well.

Managing difficult conversations is a skill that transforms your effectiveness as a leader. When you can navigate these situations confidently, you'll find that workplace conflicts resolve faster and your team starts coming to you with issues rather than letting them simmer. It's about creating an environment where honest communication skills become the norm, not the exception.