Overview

Higher education professionals navigate difficult conversations constantly – delivering feedback, setting boundaries, saying no, addressing performance issues – yet most have little training in how to do this effectively, and default approaches often create tension and damaged relationships. This strengths-based workshop helps participants leverage their natural communication style as a foundation for handling these conversations strategically, using the CliftonStrengths framework to show how their strengths show up in conflict, where they may need to adapt, and how to practice conversations that maintain relationships while still addressing the issue.

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

• Identify their natural communication style in difficult situations using the strengths framework
• Understand how their strengths both help and challenge them in conflict
• Navigate four types of difficult conversations common in higher ed:
◦ Delivering critical feedback
◦ Saying no / declining requests
◦ Setting boundaries
◦ Addressing performance issues
• Apply these types to real higher ed relationships, including:
◦ Students not responding to intervention
◦ Underperforming faculty or colleagues
◦ Difficult parents
◦ Problematic peer dynamics
• Practice difficult conversations with peer feedback
• Plan an actual difficult conversation they're facing

A fee of $90.00 per participant will be billed to each institution, which includes parking and refreshments.

Parking will be provided on campus. We ask that participants follow specific parking instructions which will be emailed to all registered participants before the event. If you would like information on accessible parking spots, please contact us at amclean@rihetc.org

If you find you can no longer attend, we always suggest that you first try to find someone else from your institution who can attend in your place. We are able to issue refunds for cancellations made prior to 15 days from the event date. Cancellations made less than 15 days from the event date cannot be refunded and your institution will be charged for your ticket whether you attend or not. You may transfer your ticket to someone else at your institution at any time, but please let us know if you do. Contact your Human Resources Office with institution specific questions.

Difficult Conversations Using Your Strengths