Ugh on difficult conversations! I do NOT like them!

Difficult conversations are never easy. Yet, avoiding them can make things worse. Procrastination can lead to more stress, and feeling unprepared can lead to miscommunication and hurt feelings.

In the past when I was a new leader and I needed to correct or have a difficult conversation with someone on my team, I was the consummate procrastinator and the very best at beating around the bush! Through years of reading books, attending leadership classes, and good old-fashioned on-the-job training, I have become better. Better; not perfect.

Recently, I attended a real estate conference where one of the guest keynote speakers was Jefferson Fisher. To say that I loved him is an understatement. I LOVED him! Jefferson Fisher was soooo impressive! Thankfully, at the event, we were given his incredible book, The Next Conversation. I read it on the airplane ride home, and I genuinely think he was born with the gift of commanding conversations and outcomes. I want to be Jefferson when I grow up. 😊

Some gems I gleaned from him were:

• Say it with confidence.
• Don’t overexplain. The more you say, the more you give people a reason to doubt. Think fewer words.
• Say it to connect.

The message that spoke most powerfully to my heart was this: “The kindest thing you can be is direct.”

I know that is soooo true. I have definitely improved my direct communication with my team immensely since hiring my first assistant back in 1999. I’ve learned that being direct doesn’t mean being unkind. In fact, when it comes from a place of respect and genuine care, direct communication can be one of the kindest things we offer another person.

To help you navigate these types of conversations and stay focused on the subject rather than the emotions, this month’s article shares some practical tips for having a difficult conversation. You may find that the conversation doesn’t go nearly as badly as you imagined. Hopefully, you’ll also feel better knowing you approached the discussion with respect, clarity, and an open mind.

I hope you find this information helpful.

And on another note, I could use your help.

We’re helping fewer families this year, and your referrals would mean sooooo much to us. The market is slower; however, it is certainly not dead. After selling homes for the past 28 years, here’s what I know: people still buy. People still sell. Life still happens. And real estate continues to move forward, regardless of what is happening in the economy.

So, please don’t keep me a secret. 😊

If you hear of someone who is thinking about making a move, would you please do me a favor and mention me to them? Your referrals and personal endorsement mean more to me than you know. I’m incredibly grateful for the trust you place in me and The Sold By An Angel Team® when you introduce us to the people you care about.

Thank you for continuing to be such an important part of my real estate family!

Have a Heavenly Day!®