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Jefferson Fisher

need to have difficult conversation?

Published 6 days ago • 1 min read
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Hey [FIRST NAME GOES HERE],

Ever dread having a difficult conversation?

You keep putting it off because you're not sure how to start or what to say.

You want it to go smoothly, but you're nervous it'll blow up.

Here's how to handle it:

#1. Skip the small talk.

Don't start with "How are you?"

Because difficult conversations are not the time for small talk.

The first thing you should say is, "Thank you for taking the time to talk to me."

#2. Ask for their help.

Your very next sentence is, "I need your help with this."

Say, "I need your help with knowing what to do about this" or "I need your help with knowing how to feel about this."

#3. End by making space for them.

When it's time to wrap up the conversation, say something like, "Well, I feel more settled about this" or "I feel like we're headed in the right direction."

Then, follow it up with "How about you?"

And then be quiet.

They might say something, and they might not.

But the important part is that you made space for them.

J

P.S. School of Communication members, here's your coaching session where I give real-time advice on handling difficult conversations.

Not a School of Communication member yet? Join now and improve your communication alongside me, my team, and the most supportive community on the internet. Can't wait to meet you:)

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156 S. Main Street Ste 300 #769, Lumberton, TX 77657

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Jefferson Fisher

Trial Attorney & Communication Expert

Simple, practical communication advice for your next conversation.

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