Research Insights: Toolkit for Difficult Conversations

Supporting safer, steadier dialogue at work
 
Difficult conversations are part of healthy workplaces, but expecting people to simply “handle them” isn’t enough.
 
They need preparation, support, and follow-up.
 
This free infographic, developed from my doctoral research at the University of Hertfordshire, offers a practical toolkit for safer conversations at work.
 
The toolkit breaks the process into three phases:
Before – building readiness through reflection, planning, and emotional check-ins.
During – supporting stability with grounding strategies, turn-taking norms, and facilitation where needed.
After – consolidating learning and trust through debriefing, leader follow-up, and recognition of effort.
 
The key insight? Difficult conversations aren’t just about skill,  they’re a behaviour shaped by capability, motivation, and opportunity.
 
By addressing the emotional, social, and structural supports around them, organisations can make these conversations more constructive and less risky.
 
Download this free resource to equip yourself and your team with practical tools for navigating high-stakes dialogue.