CHAPTER 10

Four Steps for Successful High-Stakes Conversations

Leadership is a way of thinking, a way of acting, and, most importantly, a way of communicating.

—Simon Sinek

Up to this point, we have laid out everything you need to get started. We have charted your course. Now it is time to build the Action of conducting an effective High-Stakes Conversation (HSC).

You’ve practiced your pause, reviewed your breathing strategy to stay on top of your own negative emotions, and evaluated your own ARC (Autonomy, Relationships, Competence) and biases. You’ve been deliberate about ensuring your “in-the-moment intentions” are aligned to your longer-term goals. You’ve considered how open-ended questions can demonstrate collaboration and empathy. You’ve ...

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