Managing Tough Conversations: Unlock the “Why” of the Connection Before You Start the Conversation
With a background in both the corporate world and improvisational theater, ImprovEdge brings a unique perspective to how leaders can become more effective by embracing the flexibility, adaptability, and creativity that improv demands.
Improvisation teaches you to be planful while not attempting to control every situation, a particularly important skill for difficult conversations. Improv is not about being unprepared but about being prepared to adapt. It’s about responding to the unexpected with agility and using creativity to turn potential obstacles into opportunities.
When we apply that idea to difficult conversations, as we’re planning the interaction, looking at our purpose for the conversation to ensure we’re allowing for an exchange of ideas is essential. For more on this concept, view this video:
Effective leaders must listen actively to their team members, not just to hear their words but to understand their perspectives and needs. Active listening fosters trust and respect, which are essential for building strong, cohesive teams. By truly listening to others, leaders can better navigate complex situations, make more informed decisions, and inspire greater loyalty and commitment from their teams.