Conducting Difficult Conversations Training

(Half-day)

Target Audience: Generally managers or any persons who have to deliver difficult messages

“A difficult conversation is a situation in which at least two parties are engaged where (a) there are differing opinions, perceptions, and needs/wants, (b) feelings and emotions run strong, and (c) the consequences or stakes are significant.” — J. Russell (2009).

Difficult conversations often become emotionally charged. Consequently, fear of how the conversation may go can put people off tackling them altogether.

Course aims:

• Provide delegates with pragmatic approaches to prepare for and conduct difficult conversations
• Encourage self-reflection to identify and control personal reactions to difficult conversations

 Delivery approach

Heavy focus on practical skills development using work-related scenarios and exercises. Limited use of MS PowerPoint.

Workshop Content

Book with Elite Training
Contact Elite Training today to discuss booking Conducting Difficult Conversations Training in Northern Ireland. Call +44 28 9024 2622 or email enquiries@elitetraining.com today.

FAQs – Conducting Difficult Conversations Training

What is the Conducting Difficult Conversations course?
The Conducting Difficult Conversations Training course is a half-day workshop designed to help managers and professionals approach challenging discussions with greater confidence. It introduces a clear process for planning and delivering messages that may be sensitive, emotive or high impact, while maintaining professionalism and control.

Who should attend this training?
The Conducting Difficult Conversations Training is intended for anyone who needs to handle workplace conversations that involve disagreement, strong feelings or significant outcomes. It is especially suited to managers who must address performance issues, behavioural concerns or decisions that may be difficult for staff to hear.

What does the Conducting Difficult Conversations Training cover?
Content includes how to define a difficult conversation, ways to recognise different conversation types and how emotional responses influence behaviour. Participants explore communication styles and learn how to prepare an approach that supports clarity and composure. The workshop also introduces techniques to steady tense interactions and bring discussions to a constructive close.

Why is Conducting Difficult Conversations Training valuable?
This course equips participants with methods that help them communicate in situations that often feel uncomfortable or unpredictable. With improved confidence and structure, managers can respond to issues early, reduce misunderstandings and handle sensitive moments with greater professionalism.

How long is the Conducting Difficult Conversations course?
The workshop lasts half a day, allowing participants to learn core techniques and practise new skills within a focused timeframe.

How is the training delivered?
Conducting Difficult Conversations Training is delivered through interactive exercises, realistic scenarios and guided discussion. The approach prioritises practical learning with limited use of presentation slides.

Will participants receive a certificate?
Yes. All attendees receive a certificate of completion that confirms their participation in Conducting Difficult Conversations Training.

Can the training be tailored to our organisation?
Yes. Content can be adapted to reflect your organisation’s environment, pressures and communication challenges, ensuring the training feels relevant and immediately useful.

What outcomes can participants expect?
Participants can expect greater assurance when preparing for difficult discussions, improved awareness of emotional triggers and practical tools to manage conversations that might otherwise escalate or stall.

How do I book Conducting Difficult Conversations Training?
To arrange Conducting Difficult Conversations Training in Northern Ireland, contact Elite Training on +44 28 9024 2622 or email enquiries@elitetraining.com. The team can advise on availability, delivery options and any customised requirements.