2 Essential Components Of Difficult Conversations...

Article By Buckley Carthage
Hi - Buddies here,
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It is human nature that we are going to encounter difficult conversations on a regular basis.
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As long as 2 people want different things, there will be some form of conflict.

Major conflict can be avoided if the situation is managed correctly.

It is easier to manage difficult conversations effectively if you have taken a couple of minutes to prepare yourself. 

There are 2 critical areas of preparation which are often overlooked:

1. Purpose
2. Priority

Purpose

If you are having a conversation, there must be a purpose to that conversation i.e. what are you trying to achieve as a result of the conversation?

When you do not think about the purpose of the conversation, the conversation tends to drift and you become distracted. This only serves to make the conversation more difficult.

When you are clear on the purpose of the conversation, you stay focused on that purpose and do not allow yourself to become easily distracted. 

Priority

Often, with difficult conversations, there are a number of issues which you are trying to resolve in one go. 

Sometimes you are able to find agreement on each issue but on many occasions some compromise will be required. 

It is important that you know beforehand which issues you are willing to compromise on and which you are not willing to budge on.

This is made easier by taking the time to establish your priority i.e. the most important objective you are aiming to achieve. 

If you achieve your priority, the other issues are often unimportant. The one issue can make or break the whole discussion.

Before you enter a difficult conversation, take a few minutes to establish the purpose of the conversation and your priority. 

This will result in a more focused conversation and stronger negotiation positions.

For more great communication advice and strategies check out How to Talk So Others Listen.

Have a great day,

Carthage