Please note that workshop bookings are subject to actor availability. We will inform you of any availability challenges within 3 working days.

This workshop addresses the challenges of difficult conversations, especially those disguised as ‘banter’ or related to bullying and harassment. We’ll discuss when to speak up, how to overcome the ‘fear factor,’ and the best ways to respond constructively. Designed to enhance skills and confidence in speaking out, this workshop helps participants understand the role of an active bystander in addressing inappropriate behaviour and promoting a respectful environment. 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this workshop, participants will:

• Gain confidence to start and engage in challenging discussions assertively and respectfully. 
• Improve communication skills, including active listening and non-verbal cues, to encourage understanding and connection. 
• Learn strategies to create a supportive, inclusive environment for open expression and challenging assumptions. 
• Develop resilience in managing emotions during tough conversations for constructive engagement and relationship maintenance. 
• Acquire practical skills in conflict navigation and active bystander intervention, finding common ground and resolving conflicts respectfully. 

Workshop Outline

ACTION – Courage in Communication: The workshop begins with a reflective group activity on past experiences with difficult conversations. We’ll explore when to speak out, the fear factor, effective communication styles, and the importance of non-verbal cues. Two professional actors will demonstrate a scenario involving a manager and a staff member addressing inappropriate ‘banter.’ Participants will interact with the actors to understand the barriers to effective conversations. 

Building Trust and Emotional Intelligence: Participants will learn about limited, safe, and brave spaces, and strategies for encouraging open dialogues. We’ll discuss psychological safety and techniques for managing emotions in sensitive situations. Participants will explore empathy and set actionable objectives for their personalised action plans. 

ACTION – The Art of Feedback: This segment covers giving and receiving constructive feedback, focusing on being specific, timely, and actionable. Participants will learn the “Wait a SEC” technique to handle inappropriate comments and behaviours constructively. They will engage in scenarios enacted by professional actors to practice addressing issues spontaneously, using conflict de-escalation and perspective diversification strategies. 

Active Bystander Intervention: Participants will learn to recognise inappropriate behaviour, intervene safely, and support targeted colleagues. Practical techniques and real-life scenarios will demonstrate effective bystander intervention. 

Creating a Personal Action Plan: The workshop concludes with participants developing personalised action plans, integrating the concepts and skills learned for sustained professional development and impact.