141: How To Have a Crucial Conversation

At the heart of most disappointment in organizations are conversations that people are either not holding or not holding well, in part because many of us think that there are just some conversations that we can’t have.

But Joseph’s work shows that you can talk with almost anyone about almost anything as long as you create enough safety. If people feel safe, and that you’re motives are appropriate, then they’ll let you say almost anything you need.

Joseph witnessed this firsthand when he intervened during a fight at the airport. By showing the aggressor that he understood and cared for him, Joseph was then able to deliver the truth that the man’s behavior was unacceptable. In seconds the man moved from aggression to apology.

141: How To Have a Crucial Conversation | Joseph Grenny