Leadership requires tough conversations, and some conversations come without an opportunity to prepare. In a recent Harvard Business Review article, an executive coaching and consulting expert (Smith, 2025), offers research-backed techniques to help leaders stay mentally ready for emotionally complex discussions and ensure that conversations remain productive.
HOW LEADERS CAN PREPARE
Mentally shape the conversation: Before the conversation, rehearse and visualize it going well. The author invites readers to consider the setting the setting in which the conversation will take place and think about key points that may arise or challenges that may occur. For example, imagine staying calm and attempting to de-escalate if tensions rise.
Have hope: Focus on what’s going well in a work relationship and express gratitude. Shifting your perspective can lead to a more productive conversation, even when tough performance-related conversations are necessary.
Adjust the situation: Anchor the conversation and adjust the tone if needed to ease anxiety and stay productive.
Make time to reset: Take a few minutes before the conversation to clear your mind and focus. Afterward, reflect, reset, and prepare for the next meeting. The author suggests that buffers between meetings help you stay relaxed and in the present moment.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
As a leader, emotional conversations can surprise you and make it hard to think on the spot. However, you can be better prepared by following the authors’ recommendations, including staying relaxed, thinking clearly, and remaining optimistic.
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