How Do I Communicate This?
This is a question DPI receives often. As a business leader, having difficult conversations is often necessary, but it is also challenging. Do not shy away from the hard conversation.
Also, do not avoid making strong data based financial decisions for the business because of personal attachments to employees on the team. The goal is to have a financially stable enterprise in the foreseeable future.
DPI is providing several tips to communicate effectively during a tough conversation. Make sure to read to the bottom
of this blog. We provide a sample template for a business leader having a tough conversation about an employee's performance.
Prepare
Before having the conversation, take the time to prepare what you want to say and how you want to say it. Write out a script and stick to it. Also, think about what the other person might say or how they might react and prepare your responses accordingly.
Be Concise and Clear
Get straight to the point and be clear about the issue. Avoid using overly technical language and acronyms that the other person might not understand. Do not bring up other issues, stay focused on the incident you are discussing.
Remain Calm and Objective
It is essential to stay calm and objective during the conversation, even if the other person becomes emotional. Tempers might flare. Accusations are made. Voice tone will rise.
As a leader your tone carries weight so we advise you to remain calm. Avoid becoming defensive or confrontational and approach the conversation from a place of understanding and empathy.
Listen Actively
Allow the other person to speak and actively listen to what they have to say. The receiver of the message needs time to process the information that a business owner might have spent months preparing to say. Show that you are interested in their perspective by making strong eye contact. Try to understand their point of view.
Offer Solutions
Instead of just pointing out the problem, offer solutions and work together to find a way forward. This can help to ensure that the conversation is productive and that both parties feel heard and valued.
Follow Up
After the conversation, follow up with the other person to ensure that any agreements or solutions are being implemented. This can help to build trust and maintain a positive working relationship.
Remember that having difficult conversations is a necessary part of being a leader, and with practice, you can develop the skills and confidence to handle them effectively.
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Below you will find a sample template
of one DPI's conversation scripts.
"Hi [Name], thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. I wanted to discuss something that I think might be difficult to hear. My intention is to have an honest and constructive conversation.
The issue that I'd like to address is related to your work on [Project/Task]. While I appreciate your efforts and contributions, I've noticed that there have been some mistakes and missed deadlines, which has resulted in delays and additional work for the team.
I understand that there may be reasons for these issues, and I'd like to give you the opportunity to share any concerns or challenges you may be facing.
I'm open to discussing potential solutions together, so we can find a way to move forward in a positive direction.
Ultimately, my goal is to support you in your role and ensure that our team can deliver high-quality work on time. I appreciate your willingness to have this conversation and hope we can work together to find a resolution. Do you have any questions or thoughts you'd like to share?"
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Visit
DPI’s website
to schedule a complimentary discovery call. DPI is committed to supporting our customers achieve long-term business sustainability. DPI can recommend different messaging options and templates to ensure your conversation is delivered with ease, firm resolve and effectiveness.