managing difficult conversations

Half-day workshop for public sector professionals responsible for managing people and addressing issues directly

Focused on situations where conversations feel difficult, sensitive or easy to delay, and where clarity, confidence and composure matter.

By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
- Start difficult conversations early, before issues escalate
- Be clear and direct while maintaining respect and working relationships
- Stay composed when conversations become uncomfortable or emotional
- Use empathy to understand the other person’s perspective without losing their own position
- Handle reactions such as defensiveness, silence or challenge without losing direction
- Close conversations with clear expectations, actions and follow-up
This is a practical, hands-on session focused on real management situations.
Participants work through scenarios such as addressing performance, behaviour or disagreement. Each section introduces a simple approach, followed by guided practice and feedback.
We focus on building confidence through rehearsal, so participants leave better prepared to handle conversations they might otherwise delay.
Half-day workshop (09:30–13:00)
Delivered in-person or virtually
Up to 20 participants
From £1,800 per session
09:30 – 09:45
Introduction and context
09:45 – 10:30
Why certain conversations are delayed or avoided
10:30 – 11:15
Staying composed and managing your response
11:15 – 11:30
Break
11:30 – 12:15
Opening and navigating difficult conversations
12:15 – 12:45
Handling reactions and maintaining direction
12:45 – 13:00
Key takeaways and application