Whether you’re providing constructive feedback, discussing
sensitive issues like dress or hygiene or simply setting the record straight on
a disputed topic, difficult conversations with coworkers can be stressful!

Littlefield opened the session by making a playful, yet
relatable comparison between having a difficult conversation and having a meal.
Just like eating requires you to set the table, have the meal and clean up,
difficult conversations also have three distinct steps.
Preparing for the
Conversation – “Setting the Table”
- Check yourself – make sure you are calm and collected
- Hold yourself accountable – acknowledge your role in the situation
- Clarify your goals – know what you want as an outcome
- Choose an appropriate time and place – timing and privacy matter
During a Difficult
Conversation – “The Meal”
- Focus on the facts – not gossip or perception
- Only discuss things relevant to this specific situation
- Be aware of your emotions; continuously "check in" with yourself
- Make it a two way conversation – don’t dominate the conversation
After the
Conversation – “Clean Up”
- What happens in the office should stay in the office
- Let it go – don't repeatedly have the same conversation with the same person
- Where appropriate, document the conversation including date, situation and agreed upon outcome
Be sure to join Littlefield and other Peirce staff members next month for the third topic of this four-part series.
Peirce College and
Beneficial Bank have been valued partners since 2008. Beneficial employees,
spouses and dependents are eligible for a 25% tuition discount at Peirce
College. To learn more about enrolling at Peirce, please visit
www.peirce.edu/apply.
For a complete list of
all corporate partners, please visit www.peirce.edu/corporate-partners. If your
company is not listed and you would like to be considered for partnership,
please contact Amy Holvey, Manager of Corporate Enrollment at alholvey@peirce.edu.