The Difficult Conversations for Managers Training Course by Oxford Training Centre is designed for professionals who need to handle challenging workplace discussions with confidence, clarity, and professionalism. As part of the Management and Leadership category, this course develops practical skills for managing sensitive conversations, addressing workplace issues, and maintaining productive working relationships. Participants will learn how to prepare for difficult discussions, communicate concerns constructively, manage emotional responses, and reach positive outcomes. The course covers performance conversations, workplace issues, manager communication, and conflict prevention, helping managers approach challenging situations fairly and effectively.
Objectives
By the end of the Difficult Conversations for Managers course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the purpose and dynamics of difficult workplace conversations.
- Prepare effectively for sensitive managerial discussions.
- Strengthen managers’ communication and active listening skills.
- Address performance concerns through constructive performance conversations.
- Handle workplace issues professionally and objectively.
- Manage emotions and challenging reactions during difficult discussions.
- Apply techniques for conflict prevention and early intervention.
- Deliver clear, respectful, and constructive feedback.
- Build trust while addressing sensitive employee concerns.
- Develop practical strategies for achieving positive conversation outcomes.
Target Audience
This course is suitable for:
- Managers and team leaders
- Supervisors and department heads
- HR professionals and HR managers
- Senior executives and business leaders
- Professionals responsible for employee performance
- Managers handling workplace issues and employee concerns
- Professionals seeking to strengthen manager communication skills
Course Content
Module 1: Understanding Difficult Conversations
- What makes workplace conversations difficult?
- Common challenges faced by managers
- The impact of avoiding difficult conversations
- Principles of effective managerial communication
Module 2: Preparing for Difficult Conversations
- Identifying the purpose and desired outcome
- Gathering relevant facts and evidence
- Planning key messages
- Choosing the right time, place, and approach
Module 3: Manager Communication Skills
- Active listening and questioning techniques
- Using clear and respectful language
- Demonstrating empathy without losing authority
- Managing tone, body language, and non-verbal communication
Module 4: Managing Performance Conversations
- Addressing underperformance constructively
- Giving clear and actionable feedback
- Separating behaviour from personal judgement
- Agreeing performance expectations and improvement actions
Module 5: Handling Workplace Issues
- Addressing employee concerns and complaints
- Discussing inappropriate workplace behaviour
- Managing disagreements between colleagues
- Maintaining fairness and professionalism
Module 6: Managing Emotions and Resistance
- Recognising emotional responses
- Staying calm under pressure
- Responding to defensiveness and resistance
- De-escalating tense conversations
Module 7: Conflict Prevention and Resolution
- Identifying early signs of conflict
- Using communication for conflict prevention
- Addressing misunderstandings before they escalate
- Developing collaborative solutions
Module 8: Conducting Difficult Conversations Effectively
- Opening challenging conversations confidently
- Structuring the discussion
- Asking effective questions
- Reaching agreements and documenting outcomes
- Following up after difficult conversations
FAQs
1. What is the Difficult Conversations for Managers Training Course?
The course teaches managers how to handle challenging workplace discussions, address sensitive issues, provide feedback, and communicate professionally.
2. Who should attend difficult conversations for managers training?
It is suitable for managers, team leaders, supervisors, HR professionals, executives, and anyone responsible for managing employees and workplace issues.
3. What skills will managers develop?
Participants develop skills in manager communication, active listening, feedback, emotional management, performance conversations, and conflict prevention.
4. How does the course help with performance conversations?
It provides practical techniques for preparing, delivering, and following up on performance conversations in a clear, constructive, and professional manner.
5. Does the course cover workplace issues?
Yes. The course covers approaches for addressing employee concerns, disagreements, behavioural issues, underperformance, and other challenging workplace situations.
6. How can difficult conversations support conflict prevention?
Managers learn to recognise early warning signs, address misunderstandings promptly, communicate expectations clearly, and resolve concerns before they escalate.