Category Archives: Challenging Conversations

Heart to Heart Talks – Three Steps to Discuss the Elephant in the Room

Posted on October 14, 2012 by

At the root of many of our interpersonal or team conflicts is a failure to communicate. Sometimes the problem is that information isn’t shared broadly enough and people become resentful because they weren’t included. Other times we say things that … Continue reading →

Posted in Challenging Conversations, Communication, Conflict, Emotions, Feedback, Listening, Relationships, Repairing Trust, Sharing Information, Teamwork, Transparency, Vulnerability | 36 Comments

No Leadership Fear: Five Guidelines to Deliver Feedback for Results

Posted on April 15, 2012 by

Giving effective feedback on behavior or performance strikes fear in the heart of many leaders. This past week I spoke on this topic at the Ken Blanchard College of Business at Grand Canyon University, and when I asked audience members … Continue reading →

Posted in Challenging Conversations, Coaching, Fear, Feedback, Leadership, Praising, Relationships, Reprimands, Trust | 10 Comments

Build Trust by Learning How to SPEAK – A Model for Handling Challenging Conversations

Posted on April 8, 2012 by

Whether you’re delivering a difficult message, giving tough performance feedback, or confronting insensitive behavior, handling a challenging conversation can strike fear and trepidation in the heart of a leader. If handled with skill and care, these situations are prime opportunities … Continue reading →

Posted in Challenging Conversations, Listening, Relationships, SPEAK Model, Trust | 7 Comments