Difficult Conversations and Constructive Feedback

Description

Some conversations are easy to postpone: a missed commitment, a recurring problem or feedback you are unsure how to deliver. Leaving them unresolved can make work harder for everyone. This practical course helps you approach those moments with greater clarity, fairness and confidence.

Across eight modules, you will learn how to choose the right purpose and approach, separate evidence from assumptions and explain concerns without personal labels. You will practise asking useful questions, listening to a different perspective and acknowledging your own contribution when priorities or instructions have been unclear.

The course also explores how to respond to silence, emotion and disagreement; adapt conversations for accessibility and inclusion; and recognise when an issue needs a pause, specialist advice or a formal procedure. You will learn to agree realistic actions and keep proportionate records without pretending that every discussion ends in complete agreement.

Your learning materials include a branded course manual, an editable workbook, six reusable templates with completed examples, 24 questions with explanatory answers and a final practice project with a worked example and self-assessment rubric. Word and PDF versions let you choose how to study and record your learning.

Designed for managers, team leaders, supervisors and small-business owners, the course can be completed without a current team. Allow approximately 8–11 hours, working at your own pace. You will leave with practical tools and a considered approach to your next difficult conversation.

This is professional development, not legal advice or an accredited qualification.

Who it is for

New and existing managers, supervisors, team leaders and small-business owners who want a practical approach to sensitive workplace conversations. It is also useful for professionals giving feedback to peers, with appropriate limits on their authority.

Learning outcomes

• Choose an appropriate purpose, timing and route for a difficult conversation.

• Prepare evidence and distinguish facts from assumptions.

• Give specific feedback and invite a meaningful response.

• Listen, question and receive feedback on your own contribution.

• Respond proportionately to emotion and disagreement.

• Consider accessibility, inclusion and differences in power.

• Agree practical actions and maintain fair follow-up records.

• Rehearse a complete conversation and revise it through reflection.