Before you engage in a difficult conversation, give some thought to your intentions and assumptions. Dial back the internal dialogue. Ask yourself, how true are those assumptions?
As you meet, take in the non-verbal communication in the room. Identify the energy in the room. As the CEO, president or founder, you have the power to shift the energy. Remember, do you want to win or do you want to be effective?
Finally, before you begin, practice SBNRR. Stop. Take a breath. Notice how you feel. Reflect on your intentions for this conversation. Choose your response after you listen.
Let me know how it goes. If you know that you can make greater progress, but want a coach during the implementation process, contact me.
