Elevating Supervisory Conversations: Navigating Difficult Discussions with Subordinates

This 30-minute asynchronous micro-learning course prepares first-time and middle managers to handle difficult supervisory conversations with clarity, empathy, and accountability. Learners practice using the Situation-Behavior-Impact (SBI) framework to prepare objective feedback, Motivating Language Theory (MLT) to respond to emotional resistance, and the Describe-Express-Specify-Consequences (DESC) model to establish measurable expectations and follow-through. Designed for managers in healthcare, education, hospitality, and service settings, the course concludes with a branching scenario assessment. Learners who achieve 80% or higher earn a verified digital badge and certificate in supervisory communication. Disclaimers: This course was developed with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI), such as Google Gemini (2026) and Claude 3.5 Sonnet (2026) learning models, and subsequently reviewed and verified by subject matter experts prior to publication. SAZMMS provides this educational content for a fee solely for informational purposes to increase knowledge and comprehension within the subject area. SAZMMS is not responsible for how this content is applied in workforce environments, professional duties, or job applications, and expressly disclaims all liability for any outcomes, consequences, or decisions resulting from the application of this material. This course is for educational enrichment and does not supersede professional or institutional mandates. If any conflict exists between the content presented in this course and your organization’s governing standards, you are solely responsible for adhering to your institution’s official policies, procedures, and operational guidelines.