HR training course
Navigating Difficult Conversations
This course is part of Advanced Management I: The Relational Leader (TRL) Certificate Program .
Upcoming sessions
Pick a date and register
What you will learn
Skills you will walk away with
- Identify the most common types of difficult and crucial workplace conversations
- Apply a structured process to prepare for and lead high‑stakes conversations
- Use practical strategies to manage emotions, differing opinions, and resistance
- Communicate clearly and respectfully during sensitive discussions
- Navigate challenging situations with confidence while maintaining trust and professionalism
About this course
What this course covers
Managers face difficult conversations on a regular basis – layoffs, termination, personal situations, poor job performance, admitting to big mistakes, investigating misconduct, reporting a grievance, etc. In this module, participants will learn effective strategies and processes for dealing with the most common kinds of difficult conversations. They will also learn about the steps for having a crucial conversation – one in which stakes are high, opinions vary, and emotions run high.
Who should attend. All managers: new/experienced and first-line/middle/senior.
This course is part of Advanced Management I: The Relational Leader (TRL) Certificate Program.
Reviewed by Breni Malpass, Senior HR Advisor, and Stephanie Dillon, Lead Senior HR Advisor. See Catapult HR Advisors.
Your facilitator
Who teaches this course
Ann Verdine-Jones
Learning On Demand Consultant
Ann Verdine-Jones, MBA, is a Human Resource professional with more than 30 years of experience. While Ann has successfully managed all areas of HR, her recent ventures include an adjunct faculty appointment, consulting with organizations nationally on strategic initiatives, leadership coaching and development, and cross-sectional team building. As an experienced curriculum developer, Ann has successfully designed and implemented dynamic educational programs tailored to diverse audiences. Ann has collaborated with stakeholders, subject matter experts, and educators to ensure curricula are relevant, inclusive, and impactful. Her expertise in integral digital learning tools and adapting content for various learning styles has contributed to the success of numerous workshops and training programs. Ann holds a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Management from Regent University and a Master’s in Business Administration from Western Governors University.
See the full team of Catapult HR Advisors.
Good to know
Course questions
It is delivered in person at the Raleigh Learning Center. This course does not currently have live online dates. Each session runs 3 hours.
All managers: new/experienced and first-line/middle/senior.
A single seat is $269 for members and $339 for non-members. It is also included with a Class Pass.
Next: Nov 17 · 1 upcoming date. Pick a date from the list above to register.
Yes. Private delivery is available for your organization, scheduled around your calendar, live online or on site.
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Learn more →Register for Navigating Difficult Conversations today
In person in Raleigh, open to your whole team. Or bring it in-house with private delivery.