148. Conviction and Compassion: How to Have Hard Conversations

In our personal and professional lives, some conversations are harder than others. To navigate the difficulties of discussing what matters most, Professor Irv Grousbeck says we need the right balance of conviction and compassion.At both Stanford Graduate School of Business and Stanford School of Medicine, Grousbeck teaches courses on managing difficult conversations. He equips students with skills to be direct while being respectful, to be strong while being warm, and to resist any urge to beat around the bush. "Directness, with respect, is essential,” he says. "So many of our students feel that if you're direct with someone, somehow that's harsh. The art of good conversation management, I think, does involve directness and respect at the same time."In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Grousbeck and host Matt Abrahams explore practical tips and strategies for navigating difficult conversations, from the importance of listening and pausing, to the value of rehearsing your words in advance.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: H. Irving GrousbeckIrv’s Book: New Business Ventures and the Entrepreneur Center for Entrepreneurial Studies | Stanford Graduate School of BusinessConnect:Email Questions & Feedback >>> thinkfast@stanford.eduEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page,  Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInStanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & TwitterChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Matt Abrahams introduces guest Irv Grousbeck, lecturer at Stanford GSB, and co-founder and co-director of the GSB Center for Entrepreneurial Studies.(00:01:04) Ingredients for Entrepreneurial SuccessThe importance of being an opportunity finder and getting comfortable with the domain you are in.(00:02:38) Myths About EntrepreneurshipDispelling common myths about entrepreneurs.(00:03:30) Can Entrepreneurs Be Made?The potential for anyone to become an entrepreneur through hard work and exposure.(00:04:07) Challenges in CommunicationThe most difficult communication challenges students face and tips to handle these situations.(00:06:19) Imposter SyndromeDealing with imposter syndrome and advice on how to handle and overcome it.(00:07:38) Managing Difficult ConversationsManage challenging communication by starting conversations effectively and using collaborative language.(00:10:15) Role-Playing ScenarioA role-playing exercise to demonstrate how to handle a challenging conversation.(00:17:37) The Value of ListeningThe importance of listening in crucial conversations and advice on how to listen more effectively.(00:18:58)  Career AdviceAdvice on career planning, emphasizing the importance of context and strategic thinking.(00:21:57) The Final Three QuestionsIrv shares what he has learned from his students, a communicator he admires, and the key ingredients for successful communication.(00:26:02)  ConclusionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.