Difficult conversations and female leaders
If you are a leader or would one day like to have a leadership role in an organisation you are going to have difficult conversations. This is unavoidable, and many female leaders dislike these discussions. There are times when you will have to engage in difficult conversations with other people, about things such as their performance or on some disciplinary matter. As a leader, you are required to communicate difficult messages to employees and others for the benefit of the organisation. There is no getting away from this and as a leader, you will have to take a lead in these conversations.
If you can take the lead in these conversations, courageously and effectively, then is the sign of a great leader. Here are some tips that can help a female leader to conduct a difficult conversation in a sensitive manner.
Plan your conversation
When you are about to enter a difficult conversation, you need a plan. Get to know the issues involved and consider what are the best outcomes. These conversations rarely go to plan and therefore you need to be flexible. The plan should be a guide to your conduct but should not determine it.
State the point
Be direct. You can begin the conversation with the purpose of the conversation. Do not be curt or abrupt and also be positive. State something positive about the person and reassure them that you are there to help.
Know Yourself
Be clear about your role. It is important that your body language is right and not threatening. Make sure that you treat the person as you would like to be treated. Try not to raise your voice and make sure that your conversation is aligned with the values of the organisation and your own. It is important that you do not see yourself as being in control as this could lead to a breakdown in the communication process.
Be Proactive
To avoid these difficult conversations’, make sure that you are in regular communication with people. If someone is failing to perform at a suitable level then do not let it go unchecked but talk to that individual about this issue. It is always important that you prioritize communications.
Listen!
During a conversation make sure that you do not dominate it. It is very important that you listen – even if you do not want to hear it. Everyone is entitled to their say.
Use Silence
Silence should be used to emphasise the importance of some point. For example, pause after making a statement. It is important to use silence as a way of encouraging the other person to reflect on what has been said during the conversation.
Empathy
It is very important that a leader always try to understand the others point of view. This can help a leader to have a fruitful conversation and ensure that it does not become a shouting match.
Look to the future
When you have ended your conversation- be positive and point out how things can be improved and bettered. This can encourage a person to change and reflect upon their role in an organisation.