DiscoverINTHEBLACKThe EQ edge: How leaders handle tough work conversations
The EQ edge: How leaders handle tough work conversations

The EQ edge: How leaders handle tough work conversations

Update: 2025-11-18
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Description

Are you a leader who dreads hard conversations? The uncomfortable feedback. The underperformance chat. The redundancy announcement.

It can be daunting.

But difficult conversations are part of every leader's journey, and mastering them takes skill, EQ and practice.

In this expert-led episode, we bring you tools to help.

Key learnings: 
• Why fear for even the most capable leaders drives avoidance and how to break the cycle
• How to prepare for tough talks without over-rehearsing
• Practical ways to lead redundancy or performance discussions
• Turning emotional moments into opportunities for growth
Understanding emotional triggers to finding constructive outcomes

Learn how you can use emotional intelligence (EQ) in five of the most difficult conversations you may have at work.

You'll discover evidence-based techniques to prepare for and conduct challenging discussions that build trust instead of tension.

This episode shows the power of EQ, and why it is often the difference maker in these tough scenarios.

The Career Hacks series is back and episode two is a must-listen for professionals seeking expert advice and guidance in these demanding situations.

Host: Jacqueline Blondell, Editor, CPA Australia

Guest: Amy Jacobson, emotional intelligence expert, speaker and author. Her latest book is titled The Emotional Intelligence Advantage.

For more on Amy Jacobson, head to her website, which includes a section on her books.

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The EQ edge: How leaders handle tough work conversations

The EQ edge: How leaders handle tough work conversations

CPA Australia