Interpersonal and Communication Skills

Having Difficult Conversations


Challenging conversations can be uncomfortable, but when handled well they can lead to stronger relationships and better outcomes.

In this course, you’ll learn how to approach difficult discussions with confidence and empathy. You’ll explore practical techniques to stay calm under pressure, address issues directly and work toward solutions that maintain trust and respect.

Location
Date
Duration
Time (AWST)
Address
Participants
Total

What to expect

Every workplace has moments when conversations feel uncomfortable or high-stakes.

This course equips you with the awareness, confidence and tools to handle those discussions effectively. You will learn how to recognise your own stress responses, prepare for challenging topics and communicate with empathy and composure. 

Through practical strategies and reflection, you’ll develop the skills to resolve issues respectfully and reach productive outcomes.

Is this course for you


This course is designed for individuals who need to address challenging situations directly with colleagues, suppliers, clients, or customers. It is suited to leaders, managers, and team members who want to build confidence in managing difficult discussions while maintaining positive and productive working relationships.

This course is suited to individuals who want to:

  • approach difficult conversations with confidence and professionalism

  • address challenging issues clearly and constructively

  • manage emotions and responses in high-pressure discussions

  • maintain positive working relationships while resolving issues

What you will explore

During this training course, you will build the skills and confidence to navigate difficult conversations with calm, clarity and empathy. The course focuses on recognising emotional triggers, managing stress responses and applying practical communication techniques to address challenging issues constructively while maintaining respect and positive working relationships.

By the end of this training course, you should be able to:

  • Recognise the key elements of a difficult conversation and identify your own stress signals

  • Use techniques to stay calm and composed under pressure

  • Initiate challenging conversations positively and focus on shared outcomes

  • Address difficult issues directly while respecting other viewpoints

  • Manage emotions and demonstrate empathy through active listening and questioning

Where this course can take you


During this training course, you will explore how to prepare for and engage in challenging conversations with purpose and composure. You will learn to recognise when workplace dynamics call for intentional dialogue, understand the impact of stress on communication and behaviour, and develop strategies to remain clear and grounded in difficult interactions.

The course also focuses on separating facts from personal assumptions and emotional reactions. You will build skills in focused listening and thoughtful inquiry, and apply structured methods that support more productive, respectful, and effective conversations.

Related Results


Feeling stretched between tasks, goals and deadlines is something most of us know too well. This practical course helps you take control of your time by focusing on what truly matters.

You will learn how to plan, prioritise and balance your workload so you can achieve your goals with greater clarity and confidence.


Strong communication skills are key to professional success. In this course, you’ll learn how to express your ideas clearly, listen with empathy and adapt your style to different people and situations.

You will build confidence to handle challenging conversations and discover how effective communication can strengthen relationships and enhance performance at work.


Clear, well-written policies and procedures help teams work efficiently and consistently. In this practical course, you’ll learn how to plan, write and review documents that are accurate, easy to follow and fit for purpose.


Successful negotiation is built on preparation, awareness and communication. In this course, you’ll learn how to plan and manage negotiations that achieve positive results for everyone involved.

You’ll explore proven techniques for understanding interests, navigating each phase of the process and building solutions that strengthen relationships and deliver lasting outcomes.

Courses - Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common queries.

FAQs