Managing Sensitive Workplace Conversations Training Course

ADDRESSING PERSONAL CONDUCT AND APPEARANCE

Details Audience and Pre-Requisites Course Outline / Curriculum Schedule Dates and Booking Enquiry

Details

Uncomfortable conversations are an inevitable part of managing people. This practical workshop gives managers the tools, confidence, and language to address sensitive hygiene, appearance, and conduct issues professionally and respectfully. Through realistic scenarios and role-play, participants learn how to open difficult conversations, handle resistance, and resolve issues while protecting dignity, team standards, and organisational risk.

Objectives:

  • Understand a practical framework for handling difficult workplace conversations

  • Learn how to adapt the framework to suit organisational policies and culture

  • Build confidence in addressing common sensitive issues (e.g. hygiene, appearance, behaviour)

  • Practise opening and managing challenging conversations through role play

  • Develop the skills to respond calmly and professionally to employee reactions or resistance

  • Leave prepared to handle a wide range of difficult conversations with confidence and respect

Delivery Methods

Delivery Method Duration
Classroom
Instructor-led classroom-based training. Classes are scheduled at various conference centres in the Sandton area or your premises. Stationary and printed manuals or online resources are included. Refreshments, including 2 tea breaks and a cooked meal for lunch are provided. Training is between 9 am to 4 pm.
Classroom
1 Day Get a Quote
Live Virtual Training
This course is delivered live via Microsoft Teams. You will be able to see and hear the instructor, view their whiteboard, and ask questions or communicate in the chat. Attend from the comfort of your own home or private office.
Live Virtual Training
1 Day Get a Quote

Discounts Available

Save up to 10% by booking and paying 10 business days before the course.

Brochure:

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Information may change without notice.

Audience

  • Line managers and supervisors

  • Team leaders and first-time managers

  • HR practitioners and people managers

  • Managers responsible for addressing employee conduct, hygiene, or appearance issues

  • Anyone required to have difficult or sensitive workplace conversations

Pre-Requisites

  • No formal pre-requisites are required

  • Basic experience in a supervisory, team leader, or people-management role is recommended

  • Willingness to participate in discussion and practical role-play exercises

Course Outline / Curriculum

  • Introduction: Addressing Difficult Workplace Conversations

    • Benefits of addressing sensitive issues proactively

    • Risks associated with avoidance and delayed intervention

  • A Framework for Difficult Conversations

    • Structured approach to planning and conducting difficult discussions

    • Aligning conversations with organisational policies and standards

  • Managing Resistance and Objections

    • Handling defensiveness, denial, and non-compliance

    • Responding to medical or disability-related explanations appropriately

  • Personal Grooming and Hair Standards

    • Addressing unkempt appearance and unprofessional hairstyles

    • Maintaining consistency and respect

  • Body Piercings and Visible Body Art

    • Discussing and resolving concerns related to tattoos and piercings

    • Applying organisational appearance standards fairly

  • Dress Code Compliance and Professional Appearance

    • Managing dress code violations sensitively

    • Addressing gender-sensitive, cultural, and resource-related considerations

  • Oral Hygiene Concerns

    • Approaching discussions regarding persistent oral hygiene issues

    • Using appropriate language and resolution strategies

  • Body Odour and Personal Hygiene Issues

    • Addressing hygiene concerns linked to medical conditions

    • Managing excessive use of fragrances and suspected substance-related issues

  • Sensitive Health-Related Matters

    • Discussing gastrointestinal and other health-related concerns discreetly

  • Recurrent Personal Habits

    • Identifying and addressing ongoing personal habits affecting the workplace

  • Practical Application and Role Play

    • Applying the framework through facilitated role-play

    • Receiving structured feedback

  • Workshop Conclusion and Action Planning

    • Consolidation of key learning points

    • Development of a personal workplace action plan

Schedule Dates and Booking

There are currently no scheduled dates.

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