Campus & Community

Faculty and Staff Leaders Encouraged to Enroll in Upcoming Crucial Conversations Workshop Series

Monday, May 8, 2023, By News Staff

“One of the best training sessions I have ever had at the University.”

“I believe all leadership should be required to take this course … the content is relevant to all levels of management/supervision.”

“This subject matter is so critical—the learning environment was very well-constructed and made for a safe and fun experience.”

These are just some examples of what faculty and staff members are saying about Crucial Conversations, a popular professional development workshop series offered by the learning and development team in the Office of Human Resources. The next installment, coming in June, is offered to individuals in leadership positions, so supervisors, managers, directors and above are encouraged to sign up.

What Is a Crucial Conversation?

Crucial conversations take place in organizations every day. They include:

  • conversations where stakes are high, emotions are strong and opinions differ;
  • conversations around work quality, time management, productivity, performance, customer satisfaction, sensitive issues, conflict or a strained relationship; and
  • conversations that are often avoided and/or not handled well, leading to poor outcomes.

Workshop participants will learn how to spot when conversations become crucial, avoid repeating the same conversation, separate facts from stories and emotions, and make clearer decisions and commitments, among other skills.

Note: Skills learned each week build upon concepts from prior lessons, so it is critical that participants are able to attend and be present for all four weekly sessions.

I’m Interested! How Do I Join?

  • Next series runs June 2-23
  • Meet in person on Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
  • Location on North Campus to be announced
  • Registration is required

The program provides experiential learning through exercises, practice with real issues and group discussions. Because there is a cost of $350 per person to cover program materials, departmental approval is necessary. The fee will be charged to participants’ budget centers and approval from your supervisor and budget manager is required.

Space is limited to 24 participants; ! With questions, email Pam Gavenda, associate director of organizational development and training, at pegavend@syr.edu.