Constructive Conversations: How to Foster Candid Discussions That Get Results

Constructive Conversations: How to Foster Candid Discussions That Get Results
Creative business team brainstorming
PDT-BusLM-13

 

In today’s results-driven, multi-generational, and often virtual, work environment, the art of engaging in productive conversations is more crucial than ever. Whether it's navigating a challenging discussion, fostering better relationships, or driving towards better results, the ability to communicate effectively can significantly reduce stress and enhance performance.

This seminar, led by an expert with over three decades of experience in interpersonal relationships and constructive conversations, offers a thoughtful, collaborative approach to communication that leads to better outcomes and stronger relationships.

This seminar is highly interactive but will not require participants to do role plays. We do, as a group, brainstorm how to handle different conversations participants want help with, but without playacting.

Participants will also get a copy of the facilitator’s book "Dealing with a Difficult Co-Worker."

Key Learnings:

  • How to Set Yourself Up for Success
    • What to do before having an important conversation to increase the likelihood it will go well
    • How to avoid the common mistakes people make that sabotage them before they ever say a word
    • How to work with your own anger, frustration, or fear before the conversation, so you’ll be at your best
    • When to speak up and when to wait
  • How To Start Conversations Off Right
    • How to avoid words and phrases that naturally trigger defensiveness
    • How to signal “I come with an open mind”
    • Phrases you can use to help the person open up and say what they need to say
    • How to address “repeat offenders” and not get caught up in Groundhog Day conversations
  • How to Get a Derailed Conversation Back on Track
    • What to do if you start to get upset and come on too strong
    • How to get the conversation back on track if the other person starts getting upset
    • When to take a time out and when not to
  • “Pro Tips”
    • Phrases you can “copy and paste” that foster high level trust and psychological safety
    • How to flex your approach to match the other person’s personality and communication style

This workshop was formerly titled "Constructive Conversations: How to Foster Candid Discussions That Get Results."

This course has been approved for SHRM PDCs

Each student will receive a copy of David Lee's book "Dealing with a Difficult Co-Worker." (Vol. 1 of the Courageous Conversations at Work Series). The book price is included in your tuition.

Communication Skills
Supervisory Skills
Leadership & Management
Enroll Now
Tue Jun 24, 2025
9:00AM - 3:30PM
Portsmouth - 230 Commerce Way
David Lee
309.00 Workshop Fee
6
USNH Tuition Benefit Discount
10% Alumni Discount
UNHOCE Discount
0.6
PDT-BusLM-13
225203
Enroll Now
Mon Sep 29, 2025
9:00AM - 3:30PM
Manchester Campus, 88 Commercial St.
David Lee
309.00 Workshop Fee
6
USNH Tuition Benefit Discount
10% Alumni Discount
REEO Discount
UNHOCE Discount
0.6
PDT-BusLM-13
225204

expand all

In this seminar, you will learn:

  1. Bring up difficult issues in a way that minimizes defensiveness
  2. Make sure “constructive feedback” is actually constructive
  3. Create Psychological Safety, and by doing so, increase other people’s willingness to talk candidly, rather than shut down, get defensive, and/or engage in passive-aggressive expressions of their upset feelings.
  4. Get a derailed conversation back on track