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Having Difficult Conversations

Whilst we might like to avoid them, difficult conversations are a part of professional life and this practical workshop is designed to help you build confidence in having them.

The session will explore why some conversations feel difficult, how to prepare effectively and provide techniques for having constructive discussions. The session is designed to be interactive with participants sharing experiences and practising their skills together.

The session is particularly suitable for new and aspiring managers or those looking to refine their stakeholder management skills. Whilst the workshop will include case studies from geoscience workplaces, the techniques shared are appropriate to all.

This session will enable you to:

- Recognise the characteristics of conversations that can feel challenging

- Understand the benefits of addressing issues directly rather than avoiding them

- Learn a simple, adaptable framework for preparing for and conducting conversations effectively

- Practise techniques and learn from others

This series is designed to equip geoscience professionals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence required to excel in leadership roles and enhance their overall effectiveness in the workplace. Participants will explore key leadership principles, develop practical management techniques, and strengthen the interpersonal skills needed to lead teams, influence stakeholders, and drive organisational success.

Through interactive learning, practical case studies, and self-reflection exercises, learners will build competencies in communication, emotional intelligence, decision-making, strategic thinking, change management, and team development. The course emphasises both personal growth and professional impact, enabling participants to become more effective leaders regardless of their current role or level of experience.

Other Modules Available:

Other Modules Coming Soon:

Meeting Management
Effective Communication
Building a Strategy
Speaking to the Media
Presentation Skills

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Nov

2026

Introduction to Change Management

Contributes to CPD, Virtual

group of men and women sat at a table listening to a woman in a beige suit with glasses who is standing at the head of the table speaking to them

Nov

2026

The Art of Negotiation

Contributes to CPD, Virtual

Having Difficult Conversations

This course will be held virtually on 3 December 2026 at 12:00 to approximately 14:00 GMT, depending on audience participation.

Joining details will be sent out the day prior, alongside any course materials that may be needed.

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Maggie Simmons

Maggie Simmons is Director of Publishing at the Geological Society, working with a wide range of colleagues, volunteers, partners, and suppliers to deliver the Society's publishing activities. She has spent many years leading teams and managing complex stakeholder relationships, giving her first-hand experience of challenging conversations, from providing feedback and managing expectations to addressing conflict and maintaining productive working relationships.

Fees

Fellow £75

Non-Fellow £150

Student Member £25

Student Non-Member £50

The Geological Society of America (GSA) members discount

We offer a generous 40% discount off our Non-Fellow rate to members of the Geological Society of America (GSA). A discount code must be quoted on the registration form in order to take advantage of the discount. If you are a member of GSA and do not have the discount code, please email training@geolsoc.org.uk with proof of your membership.

Group discounts

We offer competitive group discounts on all Training Courses:
5 – 9 delegates: 20% off
10 – 14 delegates: 25% off
15 delegates or more: 30% off

For more information on how to access the Group Discount, please email training@geolsoc.org.uk

Concessions

We offer students a generous discount. Please verify your student status by either registering with your student email address, or uploading a photograph of your student identification/acceptance letter.

The Society offers a limited number of concessionary rates for those in financial hardship. Contact training@geolsoc.org.uk (Please note you may be required to provide details/evidence to support your application for this.)

If you require an invoice to register for this course, please email training@geolsoc.org.uk

Registration will close 24 hours before the event takes place.

GSL reserves the right to postpone or cancel a Training Course in the event of low interest. In this instance, a full refund will be offered for registration fees.

Having Difficult Conversations