Handling Difficult Conversations About Poor Performance

Having difficult conversations with staff is one of the hardest parts of being a care manager, and one of the most important. In this episode of We Lead, Laura Brady Clegg and James Clegg talk through a situation every manager in health and social care will face:how to prepare for a difficult conversation, and how to handle it calmly, clearly and professionally. Together, they explore: how to get into the right mindset before the conversation how to keep things calm while still making your point how to avoid conversations becoming emotional or confrontational when a situation needs to move from informal to formal This is a practical, honest conversation about managing people in real care settings, where relationships matter, but standards still need to be upheld. Key takeaway: It's time to make it clear: this is the last time we have this conversation (And when it becomes a disciplinary discussion). If you’re leading a team in a care home, supported living service, or wider health and social care environment, this episode will help you approach these conversations with more clarity and confidence. Disclaimer: This episode is based on broad management experience and does not refer to any specific individuals, organisations or situations. About Managing People: Social Care If you’re managing in care, you already know the reality: pressure, constant decisions, and plenty that doesn’t go to plan. Managing People in social care is about real life. No theory. No jargon. Just practical, honest insight that helps you lead well. Laura is an experienced social care manager, working day to day with the realities of the role. James is a training consultant who knows the system from both sides, through his work and years navigating it as a parent. This is for people managing, or stepping into it, often without much support. 🎥 New episodes every week 🎧 Available on YouTube and Spotify Subscribe for honest, practical leadership content for care managers.