The TESS Group

Leadership & Management

Half Day Workshop
Face-to-Face · Virtual Available

Difficult Conversations

Handle Challenging Conversations With Confidence

Master practical frameworks for handling difficult workplace conversations with confidence - performance issues, grievances, redundancy communications, change announcements, and sensitive feedback. Learn how to prepare, manage emotions, stay assertive, and reach constructive outcomes.
Book a Discovery Call
L&D Workshop Enquire minimum 10 delegates
Framework Included • Certificate
Who Is It For?
  • Managers and team leaders handling performance issues and conduct conversations
  • HR professionals managing grievances and disciplinary processes
  • Anyone communicating change, redundancy, or other sensitive topics
  • Leaders needing to deliver critical feedback without damaging relationships
  • Managers wanting to move from avoidance to confident, assertive conversations
Programme Structure
FormatHalf-day workshop (4 hours)
DelegatesMinimum 10 per session (up to 18 face-to-face)
DeliveryFace-to-face at your premises or live virtual via Teams/Zoom
Hands-OnPractice scenarios reflecting real workplace situations
FrameworkStep-by-step conversation model with checklists
TakeawayPersonal planning workbook with scenario templates
Key Modules

Preparing for Difficult Conversations

Planning, outcome clarification, and mental preparation techniques.

The Feedback Model

A structured framework (opening, impact, expectation, close) that lands the message.

Managing Emotions

Staying calm and assertive when conversations become emotional or defensive.

Practice Scenarios

Role-play real situations: performance issues, grievances, redundancy, feedback.

What’s Included
  • Half-day facilitation by experienced conversation coach
  • The Conversation Framework - step-by-step model
  • Scenario-based learning with real workplace examples
  • Practice role-plays with structured feedback
  • Conversation checklist for preparation
  • Personal planning workbook for upcoming conversations
  • Certificate of completion for all delegates
  • 4-week post-course email support and tips
Why TESS Group?

Trusted Quality

  • Ofsted Good rating
  • 4.9/5 learner rating
  • 10,000+ learners trained
  • Certified coaches

Practical Skills

  • Reduced avoidance
  • Better outcomes
  • Improved relationships
  • Confidence in tough moments

Programme Options

Half DayContact us for pricing
Virtual DeliverySame price; practice via webcam role-play
Group CoachingContact us
Min Delegates10 per session (up to 18 face-to-face)
Book a Discovery Call

Avoidance Costs - Confidence Pays

Managers who avoid difficult conversations lose productivity, damage team morale, and escalate simple issues into major HR problems. This half-day workshop teaches you a proven framework so you can address issues early, clearly, and compassionately. The result: better performance, stronger relationships, and fewer escalations to HR.

What Delegates Say

“I used to avoid difficult conversations entirely. Now I have a framework that makes them feel manageable and even productive.”

- Workshop Delegate • Line Manager

“The role-play exercises were uncomfortable at first but incredibly valuable. I felt genuinely prepared afterwards.”

- Workshop Delegate • HR Manager

“Within a week of the workshop I had two conversations I'd been putting off for months. Both went far better than I expected.”

- Workshop Delegate • Team Leader

“The facilitator created a really safe environment to practise. Brilliant balance of theory and hands-on application.”

- Workshop Delegate • Senior Leader

Ready to Upskill Your Team?

Book a free discovery call to discuss your team's needs and how we can tailor this programme for your organisation.

Book a Discovery Call

No obligation • Tailored to your team • Nationwide delivery