The Difficulty in having Difficult Conversations

We all have to address personnel matters.  Or an unruly resident with fire in their eyes related to some action taken by the County.  Or a budget discussion where a cut is made for the betterment of the organization.  In these situations, and many like them for the local government manager, we must delicately navigate the often choppy waters of a difficult situation and conversation. While I have not been perfect, and have made my share of mistakes, here are some helpful hints to get through these:

• Prepare

• Review the purpose

• Review planned-for outcomes

• Speak with authority, conviction and be forthright 

• Close any loops at the end

• Follow up as appropriate