Managing Difficult Conversations - Geelong

Managing Difficult Conversations - Geelong

You know that sinking feeling when you see someone's name pop up on your phone and you just know it's going to be one of those conversations? Or when you walk into a meeting and you can already sense the tension in the room? Yeah, we've all been there. Whether it's delivering bad news to a client, addressing performance issues with a team member, or navigating workplace conflict that's been brewing for weeks, difficult conversations are part of working life – but that doesn't mean they have to derail your day or damage relationships.

I've been training people in conversation skills for over a decade, and I can tell you that most of us were never actually taught how to handle these situations. We wing it, avoid them until they explode, or jump in guns blazing and make things worse. But here's the thing – with the right approach, even the most challenging conversations can actually strengthen relationships and solve problems rather than create more drama.

This isn't about becoming some sort of corporate diplomat who speaks in HR-approved phrases. It's about having real conversations that get results while keeping your relationships intact. You'll learn how to prepare for conversations that matter, stay calm when emotions run high, and guide discussions toward actual solutions instead of getting stuck in blame cycles.

We'll work through scenarios you'll actually face – like telling a colleague their work isn't meeting standards, discussing budget cuts with your team, or addressing inappropriate behaviour without starting World War Three. You'll practice techniques for managing difficult conversations that you can use immediately, from how to start tough topics without putting people on the defensive to navigating those moments when someone gets upset or shuts down completely.

What You'll Learn

How to prepare for difficult conversations so you're not just hoping for the best
The difference between being direct and being harsh – and why both matter
Ways to stay centred when someone else is losing their cool
Techniques for keeping conversations focused on solutions rather than problems
How to deliver difficult messages with empathy while still being clear about expectations
Strategies for dealing with defensive reactions, tears, anger, or complete silence
Methods for following up after tough conversations to make sure things actually improve

The Bottom Line

Look, nobody's going to love having difficult conversations, but they don't have to be the relationship-wrecking disasters most of us imagine. When you know how to approach these situations with confidence and skill, you'll find that most people actually appreciate directness and honesty – even when the topic is uncomfortable. You'll spend less time worrying about conversations you need to have and more time solving actual problems. Plus, your managing workplace anxiety will decrease significantly when you know you can handle whatever conversations come your way. This training gives you practical tools you'll use regularly, not just theories you'll forget by next week.