The Crucial Conversations book club is your opportunity to go deeper—chapter by chapter—connecting the concepts directly to the conversations you face in your HR role every day.
Here is a link on Amazon, and Manhattan Public Library has several copies.
Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High, Third Edition https://a.co/d/3Mz8tqX
We will meet every week on Wednesday's at Bluestem Bistro
Why join the book club?
✔ Apply concepts to real HR challenges
Discussions focus on practical application: employee relations, performance management, policy enforcement, and difficult decisions.
✔ Learn from peers
Hear how other HR professionals navigate similar challenges, and gain new perspectives in a trusted, confidential setting.
✔ Practice before it matters most
Use the book club to test language, explore scenarios, and prepare for conversations you know are coming.
This isn’t just a book discussion—it’s a skill-building experience designed to support you in the moments that matter most.
The kickoff workshop sparks insight, the book club builds capability.
Join us to deepen your skills, strengthen your voice, and transform crucial conversations into opportunities for trust and progress.
Book Club Learning Objectives
1. Deepen Understanding of the Crucial Conversations Framework
- Study the core elements of a crucial conversation: high stakes, strong emotions, and differing opinions
- Understand how these elements show up repeatedly in workplace and HR-specific situations
2. Increase Self-Awareness in High-Stakes Dialogue
- Recognize personal communication patterns under stress (silence or aggression)
- Identify emotional triggers and habitual responses that impact conversation outcomes
3. Distinguish Facts from Stories
- Practice separating observable facts from interpretations and assumptions
- Challenge personal narratives that escalate conflict or limit dialogue
4. Strengthen Psychological Safety Skills
- Apply techniques to establish and restore mutual purpose and mutual respect
- Create conditions where others feel safe to speak honestly—even during difficult discussions
5. Improve Clarity and Candor
- Practice expressing concerns clearly, respectfully, and professionally
- Use structured language to discuss sensitive issues without blame or defensiveness
6. Enhance Listening and Inquiry Skills
- Demonstrate active listening techniques that encourage openness
- Ask thoughtful, neutral questions that uncover meaning and intent
7. Apply Concepts to Real-World Conversations
- Translate book concepts into practical language for everyday workplace and HR conversations
- Prepare for upcoming or recurring conversations using the framework
8. Build Consistency Through Shared Language
- Develop a common vocabulary and approach across participants
- Increase alignment in how difficult conversations are handled within the organization
9. Strengthen Follow-Through and Accountability
- Practice moving from dialogue to clear decisions, expectations, and next steps
- Reinforce accountability while maintaining trust and respect
10. Commit to Ongoing Skill Development
- Reflect on successes and challenges between sessions
- Identify personal growth goals related to communication and conflict management
