Are you having trouble viewing this email? If so, click here to see it in a web browser. | | | | | | | | | | JULY 12, 2010 | Know the 3 Ingredients of Important Conversations | | All leaders need to be able to deliver critical or challenging communications. Whether you are one-on-one, in a small group discussion, or at a town hall meeting, here are the three components you need to effectively deliver your difficult message: - The right participants and setting. Select the right type of meeting for the message. If it is particularly sensitive, use a one-on-one. If all your senior managers need to know the information at the same time, gather a small group. Be sure the physical set up allows for eye contact and projects the right informality.
- Credible and thoughtful intent. List the outcomes you want from the meeting. Be thorough and honest about what you really hope to achieve. Sharing these intentions with your audience will gain their trust.
- Responsiveness and engagement. Respond to others' needs as they surface. Make an emotional connection with your audience. Stay true to your own values but recognize that this conversation is not all about you.
| | | | Read the full blog post and join the discussion » | | | | | | RELATED PRODUCT | | | Managing Difficult Interactions | | Harvard Business Review Press Book | | In the business world, confrontations are inevitable — whether they're with your employees, peers, bosses, or even suppliers and customers. Ignored or handled badly, confrontations can damage workplace relationships and ruin careers. | | | | | | | | | ADVERTISEMENT | | | | | | | | | | Follow the Tip: | | | | | | | | PREVIOUS TIPS | | | | | | BEST SELLERS | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Job Seekers, Take Note | | | | | | | | | | Whether you've been laid off or are considering a job change, HBR's Guide to Getting a Job will help ensure that your next move is the right one. Only $19.95. Buy now » | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Copyright © 2010 Harvard Business School Publishing, an affiliate of Harvard Business School. All rights reserved. Harvard Business Publishing | 60 Harvard Way | Boston, MA 02163 Customer Service: 800-545-7685 (+1-617-783-7600 outside the U.S. and Canada) | | |