How to Have a Difficult Conversation

Stop Avoiding Difficult Conversations: The Complete Script Library for New Managers

You know you need to have the conversation. You've rehearsed it in your head a dozen times. But when the moment comes, you freeze—or worse, you say the wrong thing and make it worse.

This toolkit gives you word-for-word scripts for 6 difficult conversation types that new managers face most. Interactive, browser-based tools designed for real-world situations where things get messy.

What's Inside:

• 6 Conversation Scripts: Giving feedback, addressing performance issues, managing former peers, quality gaps, handling pushback, and conversation recovery
• Pre-Meeting Checklists: Prepare properly so you stay calm and in control
• Escape Routes: What to say when conversations go sideways
• One-Page Field Guide: Quick reference you can access on any device
• Interactive Format: Scripts adapt to your situation as you work through them

Who This Is For:

• New managers who dread giving critical feedback
• Team leads managing former peers for the first time
• First-time managers navigating performance conversations
• Anyone who's avoided a difficult conversation because they didn't know what to say

What You'll Get:

• Interactive HTML files that load in your browser
• 6 complete conversation scripts with variations
• Pre-conversation planning tools
• Recovery scripts for when things go wrong
• Lifetime access—works on any device, online or offline

The 6 Conversation Types Covered:

1. Giving Feedback: Deliver constructive criticism without crushing morale
2. Performance Issues: Address underperformance before it becomes a termination
3. Managing Former Peers: Set boundaries with people who used to be your equals
4. Quality Gaps: Talk about work that doesn't meet standards
5. Handling Pushback: Respond when someone challenges your feedback
6. Conversation Recovery: Get back on track when the conversation derails

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What types of difficult conversations are covered?
A: You get word-for-word scripts for 6 conversation types: giving critical feedback, addressing performance issues, managing former peers, discussing quality gaps, handling pushback, and recovering when conversations go wrong.

Q: Are these actual scripts or just general advice?
A: These are actual word-for-word scripts presented in an interactive format. Each script includes opening lines, transition phrases, and closing statements—not vague advice like "be empathetic."

Q: What if my situation is different from the examples?
A: Each script includes variations and customisation guidance. Plus, you get pre-meeting checklists that help you adapt the scripts to your specific situation.

Q: How do I prepare for a difficult conversation using this toolkit?
A: Use the pre-meeting checklist to clarify your goal, choose the right script, customise it to your situation, and rehearse. Most managers spend 15-20 minutes preparing instead of hours of anxious rehearsal.

Q: What if the conversation goes sideways?
A: The toolkit includes "escape routes"—specific phrases to use when conversations derail, people get defensive, or you need to pause and regroup.

Q: Can I use these scripts for remote/video conversations?
A: Absolutely. The scripts work for in-person, video, or phone conversations. The principles and language are the same regardless of format.

Q: Will these scripts sound robotic or scripted?
A: The scripts are designed to sound natural and conversational. The interactive format helps you adapt them to your communication style—most managers do a mix of both.

Q: How quickly can I access the scripts after purchase?
A: Instant access. You'll get immediate browser access to all scripts, templates, and checklists as soon as you complete your purchase.

Interactive digital product. Instant browser access. Works on any device, online or offline. No subscription required.