Dealing with Difficult People

All of us encounter difficult people in the law – opposing counsel, clients, witnesses, opposing parties, senior partners, judges or your own staff. But when communication breaks down, so do your chances of getting the best result for your client. How can you become more effective in dealing with these difficult people?

This course will provide you with battle tested strategies for successfully engaging and communicating with difficult people. Using a proven behavioural model as a foundation, you will become proficient at identifying the four basic communication styles and learn strategies for how to effectively manage each of these types of person. You will also learn specific strategies for adjusting your own communication style to get increased commitment and cooperation from others.

The course will also provide you with specific skills for managing the complaining client, know-it-all lawyer, or domineering boss. Learn how to defuse conflict situations and communicate effectively with these common difficult person types.