Navigating Courageous Conversations for Productive Outcomes
Description
The Navigating Courageous Conversations for Productive Outcomes training goes beyond simply teaching communication skills to employees and managers. It is a transformative programme that can fundamentally change the way participants conduct conversations and build relationships.
The program begins by laying a strong foundation in communication principles, with an emphasis on active listening and non-judgmental communication. These skills are essential for creating a safe and respectful environment in which every individual feels free to express their opinion.
Participants then have the opportunity to deepen their skills by learning how to conduct difficult conversations. This includes training in empathy, assertiveness and conflict management, which teaches participants how to prevent misunderstandings, manage disagreements effectively and arrive at constructive solutions.
In addition, the programme focuses on the art of timely and effective feedback. Participants learn how to give and receive constructive criticism in a way that promotes growth and development, rather than provoking defensiveness and resistance.
But what really sets this programme apart is its emphasis on practical application. Through role-playing, group discussions and other interactive exercises, employees and managers have the opportunity to practise the skills they have learned in a safe and supportive environment.
The end result is a work environment where courageous conversations are encouraged, diversity of thought is valued, and all team members feel respected and appreciated. This not only leads to a more inclusive culture, but also to increased productivity and effectiveness as a result of improved collaboration and understanding.
Learning objectives
- Understand the importance of courageous conversations in promoting trust and inclusivity in the workplace.
- Develop active listening skills to better understand and empathise with diverse perspectives and experiences.
- Improve communication skills by engaging in non-judgmental dialogue and providing timely constructive feedback.
- Explore effective conflict resolution methods that focus on collaboration and mutual understanding.
- Learn strategies for initiating and facilitating courageous conversations on complex topics, including diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Format
The Navigating Courageous Conversations for Productive Outcomes training is typically delivered as a 2-hour workshop, virtual or in person, with time built in for peer-to-peer interaction with the audience and Q&A. It can range from a short 25-minute TED-style talk to a 60-90 minute keynote to a half- or full-day workshop with extensive interactive exercises.
Hire Vivian Acquah CDE® to speak at your next event
or hire her for workshops!
Vivian is a great speaker who knows how to inspire an audience and convey a powerful message in a safe environment.
Vivian is available for virtual keynotes, events, summits, workshops, roundtable discussions, webinars and podcast interviews.
She knows how to inspire managers, inclusion professionals, HR professionals, L&D professionals and decision makers who want to do better when it comes to strengthening inclusion & employee sustainability.
Warning: it is important to share that Vivian Acquah CDE® may sometimes talk about food during a presentation or a lecture, a few times during this talk. Please have your (healthy) snacks ready. Vivian Acquah cannot be held responsible for any (unhealthy) cravings.
Inclusion Training/Workshop
Why are courageous conversations at work important?
Why are courageous conversations at work important?
Courageous conversations at work are important because they create a foundation for genuine inclusion, trust, and growth within an organisation.
These are honest, open dialogues that address complex and sometimes uncomfortable topics—such as race, gender, privilege, and other aspects of identity—that are often avoided but essential to address for a healthy workplace culture.
Elevate your team’s performance with our inclusion training!
Why are honest dialogues essential for driving workplace innovation?
Honest dialogues are the engine of workplace innovation.
They build trust, harness diverse perspectives, enable creative problem-solving, and foster an environment where all employees can contribute their best ideas—ultimately driving sustained organizational success.
Elevate your team’s performance with our inclusion training!
What role do courageous conversations play in resolving conflicts effectively
Courageous and honest dialogues play a vital role in resolving workplace conflicts effectively by creating a structured, empathetic, and open environment where misunderstandings can be clarified, emotions can be expressed, and collaborative solutions can be found.
Elevate your team’s performance with our inclusion training!
How can I develop skills to handle uncomfortable but necessary discussions?
Developing skills for handling difficult conversations involves practicing key strategies, like addressing issues promptly, clarifying goals, and choosing a neutral setting.
Show empathy, manage emotions, and focus on solutions to build trust and find resolutions.
Regular practice can turn these conversations into opportunities for growth and stronger relationships.
Elevate your team’s performance with our inclusion training!
How can I practice empathy to make uncomfortable discussions more productive
You can practice empathy to make uncomfortable discussions more productive by intentionally focusing on understanding and validating the other person’s perspective, emotions, and needs.
Elevate your team’s performance with our inclusion training!
How does assuming good intentions change the outcome of tough talks?
You can practice empathy to make uncomfortable discussions more productive by intentionally focusing on understanding and validating the other person’s perspective, emotions, and needs.
Elevate your team’s performance with our inclusion training!