The latest happenings with Jennifer Bicknell

Avoiding a difficult conversation might feel like the easier path – but the problem rarely leaves when you do. I joined Kristy-Lee Billett on the @peoplepoweredbusiness Podcast to talk about why we dread these conversations, why putting them off almost always costs more, and how a bit of structure takes the fear out of them.

Here’s some of what we cover in the episode:

🧭 My 6 Ws – the framework I use to prepare
🚫 Why avoiding a hard conversation costs more than having it
🗣️ How to walk in clear, calm and prepared
🧠 Why the real work happens before you ever open your mouth

Because being ready is what turns a dreaded conversation into a good result – rather than winging it and hoping for the best.

If you employ people, this one’s worth a listen.

🎧 Available now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Sugarcoating feedback might feel kind — but it’s not doing anyone any favours. I featured in HR Leader, where journalist Amelia McNamara explored how addressing issues early, creating open communication, and leading with empathy can take the difficult out of difficult conversations.

In the article, I cover:

• Why sugarcoating feedback isn’t actually kindness
• How to make honest feedback a normal part of the workplace, not something to dread
• Why a script is like a GPS for difficult conversations
• How to deliver feedback that’s clear, kind, and brief

Read the full article via the link below.

‘You get what you tolerate’: Navigating tough love in the office — HR Leader

Avoiding a difficult conversation might feel like the easier option — but the problem rarely disappears with it. I sat down with Nicole Turnbull, Founder and Chief Courage Officer at Under the Rug at Work, to talk about preventing workplace disputes by having those conversations early.

Here’s a glimpse of the invaluable insights you’ll gain from listening to the podcast:

🚫 Why Leaders Avoid Hard Conversations
🗣️ How to Raise Issues With Confidence
⏳ The Risks of Waiting Too Long
🧠 Why Mindset Shapes Outcomes

Because the conversation you put off now is the time, money, sanity and paperwork you’ll spend later. The link to listen to the full podcast is below!

🎧 Difficult Conversations with Jennifer Bicknell on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube

I joined Business & Life Advisor Rebecca Saunders from The Champagne Lounge in episode 15 of her podcast, where I discussed how to master difficult workplace conversations.

Here’s a glimpse of the invaluable insights you’ll gain from listening to the podcast:

🌟 Address Performance Issues
🔀 Navigate Employee Transitions
🗣️ Emphasize Timely Communication
🤝 Unconventional Approaches.

Ready to dive into this inspiring conversation? The link to listen to the full podcast is below!

🎧 Mastering Difficult Workplace Conversations with Jen Bicknell

Check out my chat with the wonderful Michelle Pascoe on The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast – Building Stronger Teams: The Importance of Skilful Workplace Dialogue.

A key issue that we discussed was the importance of business owners, managers and supervisors addressing issues as soon as possible. Delay never makes the problem go away.

Facilitating difficult conversations is where I thrive, so much so that I created my ‘Awkward to Awesome’ Workshop and an online course – ‘Difficult Conversations in the Workplace – A Lawyer’s Guide to Not needing a Lawyer’.

Listen to the full podcast in the link below!

🎧 Episode 197: Building Stronger Teams: The Importance of Skilful Workplace Dialogue

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