How to prepare for difficult conversations
What makes a difficult conversation difficult is very individual and subjective. Possible reasons are I am afraid of negative reactions. It is a very personal topic. I am afraid of the emotions of the person I am talking to. I don't feel up to my conversation partner.
My goals
It is important that I specifically define my goals for the conversation: What do I want to have or be at the end of the conversation so that it was a successful conversation for me?- In the best case?
- At least?
My topics
If it gets emotional or I feel insecure, there is a risk that I won't bring up everything I have planned. That's why it's important to prepare the individual points I want to discuss.- Which topics do I want to address?
- Which questions do I want an answer to?
My arguments
Sometimes it can happen that as soon as I have left the room, a compelling argument pops into my head and I think: "Why didn't I think of that earlier?" For this reason, these questions are very important in preparation:- What are my most important arguments?
- What are the "aces" up my sleeve?
My interlocutors
- What could be the other person's counterarguments?
- What could their interests and needs be?
- What type of person could this person be and how can I connect with them?
My impact
When emotions are involved, there is a risk that I will no longer behave confidently. However, if I know how I want to come across in a conversation, there is a better chance that I will behave in the same way.- How do I want to come across in a conversation?
- How do I want the other person to perceive me?
- What specific behaviors can I use to achieve this effect?
My thoughts
What thoughts go through my mind when I think about the upcoming conversation, about my conversation partner? I therefore think about this so that I can mentally engage in the conversation in a positive way:- What positive things could I think about the conversation and my conversation partner? (it has to be realistic).
Card set "Preparing for a conversation"
Emotions are often involved in difficult conversations and there is a risk that we will not behave confidently during the conversation and therefore often fail to achieve our desired goal. For this reason, it makes sense to give some thought to the situation in advance and to prepare in a focused manner. With the help of this deck of cards, you can prepare yourself for your interview in the best possible way. You will be guided through the entire consultation process with specific questions.Order the card deck "Preparing for a consultation" in the Neuland Shop.
