Harvard Business Review

How to Prepare for a Difficult Meeting

Harvard Business Review

Summary

Dena Denham-Smith, an executive coach, offers insights on navigating difficult conversations in a recent article for Harvard Business Review. She emphasizes the importance of preparation and intentionality in emotionally charged meetings, suggesting that leaders should carefully consider who needs to be present and the appropriate setting for delivering tough news, such as team restructures.

Denham-Smith advises taking time before meetings to visualize success and mentally rehearse key moments. She highlights the benefits of reframing thoughts about participants and the meeting's purpose to reduce stress and enhance presence. Additionally, she recommends a post-meeting reset, such as taking a walk to process insights and avoid carrying stress into future interactions. These strategies aim to help leaders maintain composure and influence during challenging discussions.

Show Notes

How to Prepare for a Heated Meeting

7 May 2025

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Tough meeting ahead? Here’s how to stay grounded—before, during, and after.

Read the full article by Dina Denham Smith here: https://s.hbr.org/4jMEjAh

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