Written by: Vickie Sullivan | October 15, 2020
How to Handle Difficult Conversations
Heads up: Controversial example ahead. It’s worth it, though.
The biggest challenge with difficult conversations is that our perspective can trigger emotions that feel like an attack on someone’s truth. A great example in managing that dynamic – and still “going there” – is former NFL player Emmanuel Acho, producer of the podcast “Difficult Conversations with a Black Man.”
Acho is one of many talking about race relations, but he stands out because of what media insiders call editorial tone. Acho creates a dialogue that can cover any aspect of the topic. It’s the approach – not a big idea – that sets him apart.
2 Tactics for Handling Difficult Conversations
We can use the same strategy. Here are my favorite tactics:
• Establish a safe place: The first thing Acho does is to establish a respectful “anything goes” scope. Folks can ask him any question (and they do). His responses are empathetic yet pointed. This approach works in situations where people are afraid to share what they think. Acho removes the barriers and creates a safe place for folks to explore. How you can apply this: Think about the barriers. What can you remove? Paving the way is valuable.
Listen: 2 Things All Great Editorial Tones Have
• Meet people where they are: Acho’s podcast wouldn’t work if he didn’t practice what he preaches. No matter the question, Acho leads with compassion. He understands the other perspective. He doesn’t lecture. Again, he makes people feel OK to have their own feelings. Any kind of judgment shuts down the conversation. How you can apply this: no heat, no judgment. No matter what.
With your content marketing and client work, difficult conversations are necessary. The emotional power of deeply held beliefs can derail good things in a heartbeat. Your approach and editorial tone can head much of that off at the pass. Be just as strategic here as you are with your content.
Now Read This: