Avoiding difficult conversations is like ignoring a small leak in a dam – it may seem harmless at first, but over time, the consequences can be catastrophic! This avoidance is at the root of some of the biggest challenges in organizations, including
1. Stifled Growth and Innovation: When leaders shy away from addressing issues head-on, problems fester and innovation stagnates. Without open dialogue, valuable insights and creative solutions remain untapped, hindering organizational progress.
2. Cultural Deterioration: Avoidance of difficult conversations fosters a culture of silence and fear. Employees may feel discouraged from speaking up or addressing concerns, leading to resentment, disengagement, and ultimately, a toxic work environment.
3. Missed Opportunities for Learning and Improvement: Constructive feedback and candid discussions are essential for personal and professional growth. By dodging difficult conversations, leaders deprive their teams of valuable learning opportunities and hinder individual development.
4. Escalation of Issues: Ignoring problems doesn't make them disappear; it exacerbates them. Left unchecked, minor issues can escalate into major crises, consuming time, resources, and energy that could have been better invested in proactive problem-solving.
Not surprisingly, the most common skill deficit among the leaders we coach is the ability and willingness to directly address the tough issues in a productive way. Drawing from Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead™ program and the research of the prestigious Harvard Negotiation Project, we designed this workshop to equip you with skills to manage difficult conversations in a way that maintains – and even enhances – relationships.
We begin the workshop by exploring vulnerability and then delve into essential tools including:
- Adopting a Learning Stance
- Identifying Neutral Story
- Exploring Stories
- Recognizing Defensiveness
- Problem-Solving
- Reinforcing Behavior Change
Leadership is about more than just making decisions – it's about fostering meaningful connections and driving impactful change. Join us Thursday, May 15 from 8:30am-12:30pm as we embark on this transformative work together, equipping you to navigate tough conversations in a way that respects all parties and is likely to lead to deeper understanding and resolution.
Dr. Julie McDonald will facilitate this session. The workshop will be held in McDonald Graham's offices at 2100-B Southbridge Parkway, Suite 490, in Birmingham.
