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Why plan your conversation?

Let’s face it - difficult conversations aren’t anyone’s favourite part of being a leader. But taking the time to plan ahead can make all the difference between a conversation that solves problems and one that creates new ones. Whether you’re addressing a performance issue, tackling a behavioural concern, or delivering tough news, winging it is rarely a good idea. Planning helps you stay focused, calm, and in control, even when emotions are running high.

When you plan, you’re not just thinking about what you want to say - you’re also getting clear on *why* you’re having the conversation and what you want to achieve. This clarity keeps things on track and stops the discussion from spiralling into tangents or misunderstandings. It also gives you the chance to think through how the other person might react, whether it’s defensiveness, silence, or even tears, so you can respond in a way that keeps things productive.

This planner takes you through some key strategic questions to help you achieve more clarity and confidence with having your confidence. Knowing what you’re going to say and how you’re going to say it gives you confidence. At the end of the day, planning isn’t just about making the chat easier for you - it’s about creating a better outcome for everyone involved.