Navigating Challenging Conversations
Acknowledgements:
This section is adapted from the SCT Association’s UnConference presentation by Natalie Cattell and Sarah Curtis, 25 Nov 2025. Some resources are loosely adapted from the ‘Leading by Learning’ course run by Evaluation Associates. Natalie found their PL very helpful in developing her effective leadership practice. Find more information at https://www.evaluate.co.nz/support-for-leaders/leading-by-learning
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What are ‘challenging conversations’?
- Beginnings - shared beliefs
- Pre-existing knowledge and beliefs
- Suggested guidelines
- Planning
- ‘Guided conversation’
- Getting comfortable - practice
- Exemplars
You can find more information about 'challenging conversations' through this PowerPoint: Navigating Difficult Conversations
What are ‘challenging conversations’?
‘Challenging conversations’ are any conversations that revolve around an important matter which people are uncomfortable discussing openly. These conversations can be challenging for a variety of reasons, but it is important to remember that challenges are also an opportunity for growth.
Often, we want to avoid these conversations, as they can be quite uncomfortable. We may feel the need to prioritise the relationship (and therefore be avoidant) or to prioritise the task (and therefore be confrontational). Neither of those approaches are likely to motivate an individual to change their beliefs and long-term actions.
Instead, we need to examine the pre-existing thoughts and feelings that we have about the situation and the individuals involved. Then, we need to carefully plan and prepare. These steps will make our challenging conversations much easier.
Last modified on Tuesday, 22 September 2026 14:43