Do you want more suggestions on how to take control of difficult conversations? Previously we talked about Verbal Aikido. The way to respond to a verbal attack. Such as 
accepting the comment, redirecting it, and reaffirming your stance.
Let’s Continue to Add to Your Communication Toolbox to Take Control of Difficult Conversations
There’s no doubt that communicating effectively is a major reason to succeed in your career. Hostile and emotional reactions only add fuel to the discussion. Additionally, counter-responses restore harmony and balance.
So the next time you’re the recipient of a verbal lashing, analyze the comment. If the other party is pushing your buttons, pull back. And if the other party is pulling you in a direction you don’t want the conversation to go, push forward.
Remember These Five Tips to Take Control of Difficult Conversations:
1. Protect yourself from others who try to infect you with their anger and hostility by being Direct with Respect®.
2. No matter who is dishing out the verbal assault, never repeat the accusation. Doing so will only force you to absorb the negative message.
3. You can diffuse any verbal attack by dissecting the comment. And then deciding whether to push or pull as you accept, redirect, and reaffirm the statement. 
4. When you give the other party nothing to push against, you gain control of the situation. You are able to remain positive during the conversation, not defensive.
5. If all else fails, have the courage to walk away from someone who is verbally attacking you. Don’t be a willing participant in an uncontrollable negative situation.
The more proficient you become at Verbal Aikido, the more natural it will become. And the stronger all your verbal communications will be.
Here’s Part 1: How to Take Control of Difficult Conversations
Like What You Are Reading?
Website visitors are welcome and encouraged to share any of the videos and articles that have been authored by Joyce Weiss. All we ask is that you include the following information along with the article to be repurposed:
Joyce Weiss: The HR Professional’s Partner. She coaches employees and managers so they feel heard and respected. Which means they feel comfortable using their voice without losing their cool.
Kick Conflict to the Curb™ is her newest online 6-week course that is getting a lot of buzz in the training industry. Participants learn how to tackle tough conversations and earn the respect they deserve.
Joyce Weiss Training and Development LLC is Certified as a Best Practices Company. She is recognized by Espeakers as a Certified Virtual Presenter. The National Speakers Association awarded Joyce as a Certified Speaking Professional.
Do you want to Kick Conflict to the Curb™? Contact Joyce at 248.681.5831 or Joyce@JoyceWeiss.com.