Conflict Management Certification: Tips for Effectively Handling Difficult Conversations

Difficult conversations comprise anything that you find difficult to discuss due to the discomfort and awkwardness that comes with it. People tip-toe around difficult conversations because of the fear of confrontation, dislike, and reaction from the other party. However, with conflict management certification, you will be ready.

Examples of Difficult Conversations

Performance improvement

Termination of employment

Conflict resolution

Asking for a promotion or raise

Giving negative feedback

Admitting to a big mistake

Get Prepared to Handle the Conversation

Similar to any other professional conversation, be ready. You can prepare by;

Identifying the purpose of the conversation

Identifying possible emotions attached to the conversations

Identifying a perfect way of handling the conversation

Identifying the facts in the current situation

Give the Context of your Conversation

Avoid vagueness by introducing the context of the conversation to the other person. Remain objective and pinpoint factors that the other person may have observed. Giving context helps people stay aligned. Always ask to ensure that they know and understand what you are talking about.

Listen

As you will learn in conflict management certification, listening is among the most valuable things you can do in any conversation. Ensure that you listen to hear and understand and not simply talk back. Listening with real honesty and curiosity encourages the other person to be open to the conversation. Also, ensure that you speak with sincerity and tell the truth without faking or covering up things. Deep listening is always a part of any leadership and conflict management course offered. Listening helps resolve conflicts, build trust, encourage empathy and create deep relationships.

Difficult conversations bring out a lot of emotions for everyone. This is because they either bring up old issues or put you in a vulnerable situation that makes you feel out of your depth. Using the above tips learned from conflict management certification goes a long way in ensuring successful conversations.