Dealing with stressful conversations is never easy; whether you’re telling a client the project is delayed or relaying a bad performance review to a team member. But as managers, we can’t just avoid these conversations.

Putting them off may protect us from our vulnerabilities, but they actually get in the way of having authentic and productive conversations with our teams.

So, how do we navigate the emotional rollercoaster of a stressful conversation? How do we make sure they actually lead to something positive? Today’s guest will walk us through how we can engage in difficult conversations most productively.

Joining me today is Candice Elliott. Candice is a Fractional CHRO and HR Mentor for business and non-profit leaders. She focuses on the intersection of public health, organizational and community development, helping leaders foster cultures of healing where they and their teams can thrive.

In this episode, Candice walks us through the four Fs of stress responses. She also discusses the importance of creating a safe work environment through trust and relationship-building, plus helpful physical techniques to release stress and much more.

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Conversation Topics

(00:00) Intro
(01:58) The four Fs of stress responses
(05:43) Helpful tips to keep your stress response from sabotaging your conversations
(08:48) Is taking a break advisable when in a stressful conversation?
(13:06) What does a freeze response look like, and how to manage it?
(18:16) The importance of building trust and meaningful relationships
(24:17) Physical techniques to release stress
(25:06) A great manager Candice has worked for
(26:21) Keep up with Candice
(27:32) [Extended Episode Only] What to do when someone you’re speaking with becomes defensive?
(34:57) [Extended Episode Only] How to handle difficult conversations in a team setting

Additional Resources:

- Get the extended episode by Joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month

- Read the full transcript here

- Follow me on Instagram here

- Visit my website for more here

- Build your team’s skills here

Keep up with Candice Elliott

- Follow Candice on Instagram and LinkedIn

- Visit her website for more information here

Free 45-Minute Burnout Buster Consult

Candice is offering members of Podcast+ a free Burnout Buster Consult. During this 45-minute session, you’ll identify the most impactful next step you can take toward preventing burnout for you and your team.

To get these guest bonuses and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.

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310: How to Get Through A Stressful Conversation with Candice Elliott

The Modern Manager