Mastering the Art of Difficult Conversations
Difficult workplace conversations training
This interactive session introduces participants to practical tools and techniques for approaching challenging conversations in the workplace. Using real-world scenarios, role-play exercises, and guided reflection, participants will explore strategies to stay calm under pressure, listen actively, and communicate…
Active Listening
Communication Skills Practice
Empathy Exercises
Feedback / Difficult Conversations
Psychological Safety
Roleplay / Simulation
Workshop
Description
This interactive session introduces participants to practical tools and techniques for approaching challenging conversations in the workplace. Using real-world scenarios, role-play exercises, and guided reflection, participants will explore strategies to stay calm under pressure, listen actively, and communicate with both clarity and empathy. The session creates a safe environment to practice handling disagreement, giving constructive feedback, and addressing sensitive issues — all with the goal of turning difficult conversations into productive, trust-building moments.
Benefits
Benefits of this Workshop
Practical Tools for Challenging Situations: Participants gain simple, actionable frameworks for approaching difficult conversations with clarity and confidence.
Improved Emotional Intelligence: The session builds awareness of personal triggers, body language, and tone — essential for managing emotions under pressure.
Stronger Workplace Relationships: By learning to navigate conflict constructively, teams develop greater trust, respect, and resilience.
Better Outcomes in High-Stakes Dialogues: Participants practice turning potentially confrontational discussions into opportunities for problem-solving and collaboration.
Increased Confidence & Professionalism: The workshop equips individuals to speak up with impact while maintaining empathy and professionalism.
Hosted by Sophie Paton-McDermott
About the Host
I am a communication and presentation skills specialist with over twelve years’ experience designing and delivering high-impact training across corporate, educational, and non-profit sectors. With a Master’s degree in Art History and a Diploma in Workplace Psychology, I combines academic expertise with a deep understanding of workplace dynamics and individual performance. My work includes developing leadership programmes with leading charities, facilitating skills-based workshops at King’s College London, and supporting diverse organisations such as Mitsubishi and M&S to strengthen team communication and confidence. Known for my warm, professional, engaging, and outcomes-driven approach, I help individuals and teams refine their presence, articulate ideas with clarity, and deliver compelling presentations in high-stakes environments.
Certifications & Credentials
I hold a Masters in History of Art, Diploma in Workplace Psychology and am a certified mediator. I have all relevant insurance and can provide certificates as required.
Client Requirements
I am flexible but it is useful to have a screen with an HDMI connector, flip charts/whiteboards and a microphone if more than 40 participants.
Focus Areas
Development/Coaching
Location
London, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Travel Locations
Anywhere in UK
Corporate Experience
Significant
Session Types Offered
Interactive (eg. improv, group-art, yoga etc.)
Past Experience Doing Sessions
Yes - Interactive
Past Clients
Mitsubishi, UBS, British Government (eg Ministry of Justice, Government Legal Service), Deutschebank, BBC News
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