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A Key to Success: Start the Difficult Conversation You're Avoiding

By Rudhir Krishtel
October 01, 2023

As lawyers, many of us tend to avoid difficult conversations. Although by nature, we are professional communicators — arguing a case in court, negotiating a business deal, and advising clients are examples of our expanded capacity for critical communication skills. Outside of offering incredible legal services, however, legal professionals tend to avoid having difficult interpersonal conversations with colleagues and clients.

We can negotiate a billion-dollar deal or make a clear case in court, yet have trouble walking down the hall to have a difficult conversation with a colleague about splitting credit or originations on a matter. How many lawyers do you know who have trouble giving or receiving real constructive feedback? Giving a client the hard news they may not want to hear? Fearing conversations about compensation or promotion? Or addressing or approaching issues related to paying the bills? This avoidance can harm workplace productivity and relationships, but also can have a huge impact on our well-being and stress.

Avoiding difficult conversations and the communications gap it creates is pervasive. An article from Harvard Business Review cites that over 60% of managers are "uncomfortable communicating with their employees." Out of this number, giving criticism and demonstrating vulnerability were top reasons they were uncomfortable.

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