How do you start a hard conversation? Jolene Lockwood shares her strategies

Starting a hard conversation can be one of the most difficult things to do, whether it’s at work or in our personal lives. It’s natural to feel uncomfortable about bringing up a tough topic, but it’s important to have these conversations in order to build stronger relationships and foster trust. Jolene Lockwood’s recent webinar on the edEVENTS Community, “How to Start a Hard Conversation”, provides valuable insights and strategies for those who struggle with initiating difficult conversations.

In the webinar, Jolene Lockwood discusses how important it is to set the stage before starting a hard conversation. She uses the phrase “clear is kind, unclear is unkind” to emphasise the fact that being honest and direct is ultimately the kindest thing we can do for ourselves and others. By avoiding difficult conversations, we’re only delaying the inevitable and potentially making the situation worse.

Jolene also emphasises the importance of checking in with ourselves before starting a difficult conversation. She suggests taking a deep breath and pausing to reflect on our feelings, and then checking the accuracy of those feelings before deciding whether to have the conversation or not. By taking this step, we can approach the conversation with a clearer head and a better understanding of our own emotions.

Another important strategy that Jolene suggests is to focus on “shared values and goals” when starting a difficult conversation. By emphasising common goals or values, we can help to create a shared sense of purpose and avoid making the conversation feel like a personal attack.

Jolene’s webinar provides valuable insights and practical strategies for anyone who struggles with initiating difficult conversations. By setting the stage, checking in with ourselves, and focusing on shared values and goals, we can approach these conversations with more confidence and create stronger, more authentic relationships. Whether you’re a manager, a team member, or just looking to improve your communication skills, this webinar is definitely worth a watch.