A client recently asked me for advice on how to handle a redundancy conversation.

My advice was this:

The conversation is not about you.

The other person won’t want to hear your advice (unless specifically asked), or your experience or even an ‘I understand what you’re going through’ (because you don’t).

This could shift the focus away from their needs.

But this doesn’t come easy for many. So what can you do?

• Be present. Offer a safe space for their emotions

• Resist the urge to fix (there is nothing to fix) or advise

• Resist the urge to think you know what’s good for the other person

• Be aware of your own emotions. Seeing someone stressed can easily stress you, too. Instead of staying stressed, tell yourself “I think this situation makes me feel stressed” – as it can help you feel grounded again.

Sometimes, all someone needs is an open ear and your undivided attention – be it in professional or personal conversations.

Also read my post on conflicts and connect with me on LinkedIn.