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What are the key considerations for handling difficult conversations in professional settings?

Marva Mount, MA, CCC-SLP, FNAP

April 1, 2024

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Question

What are the key considerations for handling difficult conversations effectively, particularly in professional settings? 

Answer

Handling difficult conversations requires careful preparation and communication skills. Before engaging in such discussions, it's important to observe people and practice active listening. These qualities foster a deeper understanding of others' needs and perspectives. A thoughtful approach is vital when dealing with family, patients, clients, or coworkers.

To adapt communication style without losing authenticity, consider making subtle adjustments rather than a complete change. Find a balance where your true self aligns with effective communication. The pivotal factor is keen observation. Healthcare professionals exemplify this in their practice, and the same principle applies to other areas of life. Pay attention to words, tone, and body language.

Intuition also plays a key role. Sensing the atmosphere and gauging the context before entering discussions prevents missteps. Charging into conversations without context consideration can be detrimental. Observational skills shouldn't be limited to work; they're valuable in all interactions. Being attuned to others' cues helps connect on a deeper level.

Adapting communication to the audience is paramount. Recognize that diversity enriches interactions. Being observant enables emotional control during tough conversations, fostering versatility in connecting with people. Remember, effective communication doesn't entail changing who you are, but rather understanding others and tailoring your approach accordingly.

This Ask the Expert is an excerpt from the course, Understanding Communication Styles on Diverse Teams, presented by Marva Mount, MA, CCC-SLP, FNAP.


marva mount

Marva Mount, MA, CCC-SLP, FNAP

Marva Mount, M. A., CCC-SLP has worked in a variety of settings in her 37-year
career, with school-based services being her most enjoyed work setting. She is drawn to supporting and serving children who have the greatest need for services and the highest likelihood of educational success with intervention. Currently, she is the Related Services
Director for Imagine Learning. Marva has presented at the state, national, and
international levels on a variety of school-based issues. She is a chapter
author/contributor to the Sixth Edition of Professional Issues in Speech-Language
Pathology and Audiology (publish date 11/23) as well as a contributing author to
ASHA Special Interest Group 11 and 16 (Supervision and School-based Issues)
Perspectives. At the 2018 Texas Speech and Hearing Convention, she was awarded the TSHA Hall of Fame Award for outstanding contributions to the profession. In 2022, Marva was inducted as a Distinguished Fellow into the National Academies of Practice, Speech-Language Pathology Academy.


Related Courses

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