Difficult Workplace Conversations

This is a structured framework for workplace conversations you'd rather avoid: performance discussions, peer conflicts, asking for a raise, or delivering critical feedback. It breaks the process into preparation, delivery, and followup phases, with specific guidance on managing your own emotions, using the SBI model (Situation-Behavior-Impact), and avoiding common mistakes like scripting every word or starting with "you always." The real value is in the preparation template and conversation scripts. It overlaps with general feedback skills but focuses specifically on the uncomfortable stuff where stakes are high and emotions run hot.