Stressful Conversations

        I have some bad news. We've all heard it. Your heart sinks as you anticipate what the message could be, quickly running through the options. When it's fully conveyed, the stress moves from the awkwardness of the conversation to the content of the news itself. These conversations are difficult to have and manage, especially when it's in the context of our workplaces. What strategies can we use to effectively cope and make sure it runs smoothly?

        In the HBR text, Holly Weeks provides strategies to effectively manage stressful conversations. One of these is to open the conversation by acknowledging your own responsibility for the problem. This helps to shift the focus away from the person receiving the difficult information (possibly criticism) who is likely already feeling vulnerable.