Hard Conversations @ Work
Unfortunately, for everyone hard conversations are exactly that: HARD. They can feel awkward, uncomfortable, and nerve-wracking all in the same moment. Basically avoiding them at all costs is what most people want to try and do...
However, part of being a professional in any Industry is being able to handle these difficult conversations- whether it's asking for a promotion, increasing your cost with an existing customer, and/or challenging management decisions. The challenge is - how do you go about these conversations without sounding as if you are complaining or not a team player?
From my experience with difficult conversations the best way is to lead the conversation through thought-provoking questions. Not telling the other person what you think- but allowing them to come to their own conclusions through your questions. What defines a top performer in your mind? How are you planning to retain your top talent?
Additionally, talking in the third person can help you generalize the conversation and not make it all about yourself. For example, all sales people like two things 1) recognition and 2) making a lot of money. How can we make this effective on our team?
Lastly, always staying positive and having a good attitude throughout the discussion. Even though it is a hard conversation, doesn't mean it has to be negative. Always focus on a solution that helps everyone involved. Your attitude should be upbeat and collaborative.
To summarize: ask thought-provoking questions, generalize the conversation (not all about YOU), and keep it positive. Have these hard conversations now, so you don't hit any serious roadblocks in the future.
Good luck!