Communication strategies for difficult conversations focus on expressing your thoughts and feelings clearly while actively listening to understand the other person’s perspective. Employing these strategies helps create a safe space for open dialogue, facilitates mutual understanding, and increases the likelihood of reaching a favorable resolution.
Their Perspective
Active listening is a crucial communication skill for any conversation, but it becomes even more critical during difficult conversations. It involves truly listening to understand the other person’s perspective rather than simply waiting for your turn to speak. This means paying attention to their verbal and nonverbal cues, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting on what you’ve heard to ensure accurate understanding.
3 minutes
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Take Away
Effective communication is crucial for navigating difficult conversations. By practicing active listening, using “I” statements, paying attention to nonverbal cues, asking clarifying questions, and managing emotional reactions, you can create a safe space for open dialogue, foster mutual understanding, and increase the likelihood of reaching a favorable resolution. Apply this by actively listening during a general conversation with a coworker to build and strengthen these skills before approaching your first difficult conversation.