Leading Difficult Conversations

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

Identify skills and attitudes necessary for leading difficult conversations.

Lesson Intent: 

The intent of this lesson is to equip students with the skills and attitudes necessary for leading difficult conversations. The lesson will cover the ingredients of difficult conversations (perceptions; assumptions about intent; feelings; and blame), tools for effectively leading a difficult conversation, and an activity designed to help students prepare for and lead a variety of difficult conversations.

Most students have likely taken part in difficult conversations, even if they have not had the opportunity to lead them. In accordance with The Enlisted Force Structure, all noncommissioned officers “contribute to a professional climate and culture by supporting leaders’ decisions, seeking clarification when needed, and defining expectations to their subordinates, as well as identifying, highlighting, and correcting behaviors that might detract from their teams.”

The ability to lead difficult conversations with subordinates, peers, and superiors is a vital skill in maintaining good order and discipline at all levels.

Student Preparation:

Read "Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most"