[AOM 2026] Navigating Difficult Conversations PDW

Difficult conversations—whether about performance, feedback, ethics, identity, values, or power—are central to leadership and collaboration. Yet even experienced scholars and practitioners often struggle to navigate them effectively in real time.

This Professional Development Workshop (PDW) brings together researchers and practitioners to explore what makes conversations difficult and to practice evidence-informed approaches for engaging them with clarity, empathy, and skill. Designed as an experiential session, the workshop emphasizes real-life scenarios, small-group breakouts, and collective sensemaking.

Participants will:

• Develop a deeper understanding of why difficult conversations derail
• Practice tools and strategies for navigating them more effectively
• Engage in research–practice dialogue with a cross-disciplinary community

Session format: Interactive, scenario-based workshop

Session time: Sunday, Aug 2 2026, 12:30PM - 3:00PM

Session location: Convention Center, 126B - 100 Level

Eligibility: This PDW is part of the Academy of Management Annual Meeting. Participation is limited to registered AOM conference attendees.

Capacity note:
Due to the interactive design, space is limited. Registered participants will receive priority seating. Walk-in AOM attendees are welcome and will be admitted as space permits.