Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking when Stakes Are High
The keys to effective communication are complex. If they weren't, we would all communicate with each other perfectly. When I was in college, I chose a "interpersonal communication" class over the horrifying "speech class". Back then, I thought I knew it all. Today, I realize I don't know much. I'm on a constant quest to learn how to do things better. Communicating with others, especially when there could be conflict, is a skill worth practicing. Enjoy.
Communicating Best When It Matters Most A crucial conversation, as opposed to a casual exchange, is a discussion between two or more people about tough issues where opinions vary, stakes are high, and emotions run strong. When a topic needs to be breached that could easily lead to disaster, such as approaching a boss who is breaking his or her own safety or quality policies, or critiquing a colleague's work, or talking to a team member who isn't keeping commitments, talking openly is a must, but can be very difficult. Mastering your crucial conversations can kick-start your career, strengthen your relationships, revitalize your organization and your community, and even improve your health, according to the authors of Crucial Conversations.
