17/03/2026
Most managers aren’t trained to handle difficult conversations… they’re just expected to figure it out.
Having a simple structure can make these conversations much easier to manage.
Two frameworks I often use are:
🔹 BECC – a simple structure managers can rely on in any conversation
• Be Prepared
• Empathise & Listen
• Clarify Expectations
• Conclude with Agreed Actions
🔹 FEELINGS – helpful when conversations are more emotional
• Acknowledge the emotion
• Explore what’s driving it
• Validate without agreeing
• Clarify facts and expectations
• Move towards a practical outcome
Together they help managers stay calm, keep conversations constructive, and agree clear next steps.
