BAUU 56 - The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Difficult Conversations
Rick Yvanovich FCMA CGMA FCPA MSc CCMP CCMC CBC MCH PCC
Certified Chief Master coach, entrepreneur, author, and speaker | Bridging technology, accounting, and people, I’m a catalyst inspiring human transformation for consistently higher achievement.
Welcome back to the Business As UnUsual (BAUU) TL;DR solutions for leaders. This edition dives into one of the most challenging yet essential leadership skills: mastering difficult conversations.
Whether it’s delivering tough feedback, addressing conflict, or navigating sensitive topics, leaders must approach these moments with clarity, empathy, and confidence to build trust and drive positive outcomes.
The format is:
"The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place." — George Bernard Shaw
Problem
Difficult conversations are often avoided or mishandled, leading to:
Research by Harvard Business Review found that 69% of managers feel uncomfortable communicating with employees, especially when delivering critical feedback.
How can leaders approach difficult conversations confidently while fostering trust, respect, and productive outcomes?
TL;DR Solution
Use the CLEAR Framework to approach difficult conversations with confidence, clarity, and care.
C = Communicate Purpose Clearly
Best Practice: Start the conversation with a clear objective and positive intent.
Practice: Clearly state why the conversation is happening and what you hope to achieve.
Impact: Sets a constructive tone and aligns expectations from the outset.
L = Listen Actively
Best Practice: Create space for the other person to share their perspective.
Practice: Use reflective listening—repeat back what you hear to confirm understanding.
Impact: Builds trust and ensures clarity.
E = Empathise Genuinely
Best Practice: Acknowledge the other person’s emotions without dismissing them.
Practice: Use phrases like, "I understand this might be challenging…".
Impact: Reduces defensiveness and creates emotional safety.
A = Address Assumptions
Best Practice: Focus on facts rather than assumptions or interpretations.
Practice: Share specific examples rather than generalisations.
Impact: Keeps the conversation grounded in reality.
R = Resolve with Action Steps
Best Practice: End with clear, actionable outcomes.
Practice: Summarise agreed actions and follow up in writing if necessary.
Impact: Ensures accountability and prevents ambiguity.
"We don’t have to agree on everything, but we must understand each other." — Rick Yvanovich
Why CLEAR?
The CLEAR Framework provides a structured and practical approach to navigating complex conversations.
With CLEAR, leaders can transform difficult conversations from obstacles into opportunities for growth, trust, and collaboration.
"Difficult conversations don’t have to be destructive—they can be opportunities for growth and stronger connections." — Rick Yvanovich
Try This
1. Role-Play Scenarios
Action: Practice difficult conversations with colleagues or mentors in a safe, role-play setting.
Frequency: Monthly
Impact: Builds confidence and refines your approach.
2. Feedback Journals
Action: Maintain a journal to reflect on challenging conversations—what worked, what didn’t, and what to improve.
Frequency: After every difficult conversation
Impact: Encourages continuous learning and improvement.
3. Establish Ground Rules for Conversations
Action: Set clear norms for team discussions, such as active listening and speaking respectfully.
Frequency: Ongoing
Impact: Creates a safe space for open dialogue.
"Honest disagreement is often a good sign of progress." — Mahatma Gandhi
It’s a Wrap
That’s it for today, see you next week. Comment, follow, like, and share this Newsletter. As always, be happy, healthy, joyful, and wealthy.
/Rick
Need Personalised Guidance?
Navigating difficult conversations can be one of the most challenging aspects of leadership. If you need help building confidence, clarity, and effectiveness in your communication, feel free to reach out for a coaching session, and let’s work through it together.
?? This edition aligns with Business As UnUsual: How to Thrive in the New Renaissance.
Get your copy for more on thriving in uncertainty here: https://www.rickyvanovich.com/books
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