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Challenging conversations

Four people sitting at a table in a bright room, engaged in a discussion. Central woman with blonde hair has her hand on her chin, listening thoughtfully. Others include a person with dark, curly hair and glasses, a person with short hair holding a pen, and a person whose face is not visible.

Turning difficult conversations into opportunities for clarity, trust, and growth

This experiential workshop is designed to give participants the tools, confidence, and language to navigate challenging conversations — whether with a peer, senior colleague, client, or team member. Through a blend of plenary teaching and skills-based practice, participants will learn how to handle difficult moments constructively and communicate with empathy, clarity, and purpose.

The focus is on real-world application: shifting from avoidance or confrontation to productive, trust-building dialogue.

Depending on the group size, the session is delivered in one of two formats:

  • For larger groups: A Forum Theatre approach is used, where trainers perform realistic conversations, drawing on audience insight to explore best practice. Participants then practise in pairs using conversation tools provided.

  • For smaller groups: A bespoke coaching format is used, with short plenary input followed by trainer-led breakout sessions for individual skills practice and feedback, concluding with a group debrief.

Two men having a conversation in an office with large windows and concrete walls. One man is gesturing with his hands, and the other man is listening. There are papers, a closed book, and a glass of water on the table.

Course outline

In this course, we’ll look at the different types of challenging conversations (feedback, conflict, performance) and what makes the conversation challenging.

Participants are introduced to several models and given the opportunity to practice a real-life challenging conversation putting the models into practice. By doing so participants learns by trial and error which approach works best for different situations.

Throughout they’re provided with constructive feedback on what worked and what can be improved.

  • Quote Mark Icon

    “You and your colleagues are very well received by the participants. They really love the sessions, and are challenged and energised by them.”

    Senior Faculty Associate & Coach at Centre for Creative Leadership.

  • Quote Mark Icon

    “Amazing workshop, brilliantly presented and great actors that really helps to put you into your patients shoes.”

    Course Participant Camden NHS

  • Quote Mark Icon

    “The tools provided were exceptionally clear, concrete, and practical. I continue to practice the tools and techniques introduced during the session, and I find them to be immensely valuable and effective.”

    Course Participant AADF (Albanian American Development Foundation)

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

Unlock your potential…

Format: Virtual or in person
Length: Half day
Participants: 4-12

  • Understand how to approach challenging conversations with confidence and purpose.

  • Learn to use curiosity, questioning, and active listening to build trust and de-escalate tension.

  • Practise framing messages clearly and constructively using simple, effective structures.

  • Discover how to choose language that is clear, respectful, and compelling — especially under pressure.

  • Apply tools and techniques in realistic scenarios and receive practical feedback from trainers and peers.

  • Leave with greater awareness of their communication style, and an action plan to continue developing their confidence in difficult conversations.