Hi John,

Occasionally we hear people refer to Crucial Conversations for Mastering Dialogue as “charm school.”

What do you think? Are the Crucial Conversations skills about charming others? Add your perspective in the comments section of today's article.
Why Should I Cater to People Who Are Afraid to Speak Their Mind?
by Justin Hale

I am a very direct individual. I struggle to work with anyone who is not direct, who is conflict-avoidant, and who does not speak up to ensure we work together effectively. Trying to make it safe for people like this feels like coddling and a waste of time. I think it’s good to learn skills to speak up, but I don’t see the benefit in placating to people who are insecure or introverted or both. Am I missing something?

Signed,
Direct

It depends on what you want. It may be true that it’s more efficient in the moment to be “very direct” and not try to make it safe for everyone to share their perspective, but virtually all the research in interpersonal communication suggests that kind of approach can be inefficient in the long run.
Continue Reading
virtual learning graphic
Apr 15–19

Crucial Conversations® for Accountability

Join us live online and learn how to:

  • Master performance discussions.
  • Manage projects without taking over.
  • Reach alignment when stakes are high and opinions vary.
  • Strengthen trust and reliability.
  • Get results and improve relationships.
Register
 
 

The person who is brutally honest enjoys the brutality quite as much as the honesty. Possibly more.
 
—Richard J. Needham