One of the key differentiators between the exceptional business owners and the average business owner is the ability to navigate difficult conversations successfully. As a business and executive coach I see this frequently.
Whether it is a conversation with a customer, a vendor, a partner, or an employee, from time to time we all find ourselves in the middle of a difficult conversation. This becomes even more acute when we have family members working in our businesses. We must know how to have a difficult conversation when the time arises.
One of my favorite tools for coaching business owners and the executive on this subject is the book Crucial Conversations by Patterson, Grenny, McMillan, and Switzler. In my next few blog posts I hope to share some insights and tips from my experience and from this excellent resource to help you as you engage these situations.
For now let’s identify what makes a conversation difficult and what immediate steps we can take. The authors of Crucial Conversations suggest that there are three factors that make the conversation difficult.
First, opinions vary. For example, you and your team have to solve a sensitive customer service problem but everyone has a different perspective on what needs to happen. You need them to be a part of the solution but everyone sees the issue differently.
Second, the stakes are high. You know that if this customer service problem is not handled correctly you will lose a very large account that will effect your bottomline.
Finally, emotions run strong. Some of your team members have been at odds with one another and you’re at the end of your rope with them. Worse yet, this valuable customer has expressed in no uncertain terms their disappointment with your service.
Typically when opinions vary, stakes are high, and emotions run strong you are headed for a train wreck. So what do you do? How can you guide the conversation to make sure this has a good resolution?