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HR in Small Business: The Three-Step Tough Conversation Framework

HR in Small Business: The Three-Step Tough Conversation Framework

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 One of the hardest parts of HR in small business is having tough conversations with employees. From performance issues to restructures, many owners avoid these discussions out of fear of conflict, legal risk, or damaging relationships. In this episode, Amy shares a practical three-step framework that makes difficult conversations more manageable — and even an opportunity to strengthen trust.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why avoiding tough conversations often makes problems worse.The three-step framework: prepare, communicate, follow up.How to balance kindness with clarity during sensitive discussions.The importance of written follow-up and record keeping.How to turn challenges into opportunities for stronger relationships.Having tough conversations is never easy, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or damaging. With Amy’s people-first framework, you’ll have a clear path forward that keeps your business compliant and your relationships intact. As an experienced HR leader, Amy shows how the right approach not only resolves issues but also creates stronger, more resilient teams.Resources & Links – Get The People First Performance Pack: https://www.groundedhr.com.au/grab-the-people-first-performance-pack– Explore The HR Link: https://www.groundedhr.com.au/the-hr-link – Free HR resources for small business owners:• Guide to Managing Underperformance • 7 HR Steps to Hiring a Superstar👉 Follow The HR Link on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and subscribe on YouTube, so you never miss an episode.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction: Why tough conversations are so often avoided01:50 – The consequences of putting these conversations off02:12 – Introducing the three-step framework: prepare, communicate, follow up02:39 – When to use it: performance, conduct, restructures, redundancies02:58 – Step 1: Prepare — gathering facts, outcomes, and policies04:10 – Step 2: Communicate — having the conversation with kindness and clarity04:40 – Why offering a support person matters05:10 – Staying calm, handling heated reactions, and knowing when to pause06:38 – The importance of written follow-up for clarity and compliance07:01 – Record keeping: documenting conversations and outcomes07:28 – Step 3: Follow up — delivering promised support and keeping momentum07:55 – Turning tough conversations into opportunities for stronger relationships08:22 – Setting standards and boundaries in your business08:49 – Overcoming overwhelm with tools and resources09:22 – Introducing the People First Performance Pack09:55 – How templates, scripts, and checklists can support you10:15 – Episode wrap-up and next stepsAbout The HR Link: People-First ConversationsThe HR Link: People-First Conversations is the podcast for Australian business owners who want to manage their teams with clarity, care, and confidence. Hosted by Amy Christopherson, founder of Grounded HR, each episode brings you short, practical conversations that simplify HR and centre the humans inside your business.Whether you’re hiring your first employee, navigating team challenges, or just want to make sure you’re “doing it right,” this podcast will give you the tools and reassurance you need.New episodes are released fortnightly on Tuesdays at 7am. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode.Connect with Grounded HR– Website: https://www.groundedhr.com.au/ – Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/groundedhr.au/ – Grounded HR LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/groundedhr/ – Amy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-christopherson-au/ – Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GroundedHR.au/ – YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundedHR – Explore The HR Link, your HR Partner in Your Pocket: https://www.groundedhr.com.au/the-hr-linkDisclaimerThe HR Link: People-First Conversations is here to share people-first insights and education, not legal advice. Every business is unique, so we encourage you to seek tailored guidance for your own circumstances.
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