Having Difficult Conversations in the Workplace
Your future will involve a variety of jobs, new experiences, challenging tasks and... difficult people. With an occupation that exposes you to multiple groups of people, you are bound to come across experiences that may make things challenging; whether that be a strict boss, unfair pay, or lazy coworkers. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to prepare yourself to have these difficult conversations.
Organize Your Thoughts
Since the conversation might involve a sensitive topic, it is important to prepare specific things to say. It may also be helpful to come up with topics or words to avoid, so the conversation does not go in an unintended direction. This does not mean to create a script, because that will only make the conversation more stressful if it happens to go off-script.
Make some sort of a “bulleted list” inside your head, so you can remember the specific things you would like to discuss. For more preparation, think of how the person will respond. Come up with some response questions that they may ask, then prepare for your response back. Once you have this down, your actual conversation will be more fluent.
Be Positive And Straight-Forward
Nothing is worse than a difficult conversation being carried on longer than it needs to be. Get to the point quickly, so the other person can understand your point of view. After giving this person enough time to ask questions and respond, think of the ways you can suggest a solution to the problem.
There is no point in having a tough discussion if there is no hope for a better future. If you are dealing with a lazy coworker, give them some examples of the characteristics of a hard-working coworker. If you feel the pay is unfair, ask what you can do to be deserving of a higher income. Ending things on a positive note gives your co-worker a better idea of what they can change to make things better.
Do Not Let Their Reaction Distract You
You are bringing up this conversation for a reason. The person may become angry or offended, but this should not change the conversation you prepared for. Continue to be stern, but patient and understanding. For all of the empaths out there, do not let your pity distract you from the goal.
This does not mean that you should disregard their response. Listen to them closely and make sure they understand that you are not coming from a malicious state of mind.
Do Not Forget To Breathe!
As an introvert myself, it is important to prepare any nerves you may have before having this conversation. Consider the triangle breathing technique. Personally, this is what I use to calm myself down before a difficult situation.
It is okay to be nervous! Sometimes these conversations are necessary for the advancement of the company. Remember, it will most likely result in something positive.
About Clare:
Clare Quirin is a sophomore at GVSU, with a double major in Film and Advertising and Public Relations. Currently, Clare is an account associate for Grand PR and interning for a senior referral service based out of Chicago. She enjoys camping, hiking, skiing and editing films.