Full course description
1 hour
Self-Paced
Earn a Badge
Course Overview
Difficult conversations are a part of every workplace. Whether you're addressing conflict, navigating disagreements or discussing sensitive topics, how you communicate can shape relationships, trust and team culture.
Navigating Difficult Conversations introduces the CLARA model, a practical framework for compassionate communication and constructive dialogue. Through real-world scenarios and guided reflection, you'll learn strategies to de-escalate tension, foster understanding and approach challenging conversations with greater confidence and empathy.
This noncredit course is part of Creighton University’s Inclusion and Belonging Certificate or as an elective in our Leadership Certificate, and supports professionals committed to ethical leadership, purposeful work and inclusive environments.
This course is valid for 1.0 PDCs for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification.
Who Should Enroll
This course is ideal for professionals who want to strengthen active bystander skills, foster belonging and positively influence workplace culture, including:
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- Mid-career professionals in HR, learning and development or people operations
- Emerging leaders and managers
- Healthcare, nonprofit and education professionals
- Career changers seeking stronger interpersonal and inclusive leadership skills
No prior training is required.
Course Instructor
Becky Nickerson, Ed.D.
Senior Director, Career Leadership Programs
Creighton University
Becky Nickerson is a seasoned facilitator and educator with over 20 years of experience. Her expertise lies in helping individuals and organizations build inclusive cultures through intentional reflection, storytelling and action.
What You’ll Learn
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
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- Describe the five steps of the CLARA model and explain how each step supports effective communication
- Apply compassionate communication strategies when navigating sensitive or contentious topics
- Facilitate respectful, constructive dialogue that promotes understanding and reduces conflict
- Use practical techniques to de-escalate tension and build trust during difficult conversations
Course Outcomes
You'll gain practical tools to navigate high-stakes conversations with greater confidence, empathy and professionalism while fostering stronger relationships and more productive workplace dialogue.
FAQs
What are the benefits of completing this course?
You'll develop practical skills for managing conflict, discussing sensitive topics and fostering respectful communication while earning credit toward the Inclusion and Belonging Certificate.
What is the career outlook for individuals who complete this program?
Professionals with strong communication, emotional intelligence and conflict management skills are valued across industries. This course can strengthen your effectiveness as a manager, HR professional, educator, healthcare provider or team member.
What is the CLARA model?
The CLARA model is a communication framework designed to promote empathy, understanding and constructive dialogue during difficult conversations. Its five-step approach helps individuals navigate challenging situations with greater care and effectiveness.
How long does it take to complete?
This self-paced course takes approximately one hour to complete.
How is the course structured?
This course is 100% online and self-paced. You can start anytime and progress on your own schedule—ideal for working professionals.
Does this count toward the Inclusion and Belonging Certificate?
Yes. This course is part of the Inclusion and Belonging Certificate program. This course also counts as an elective for the Leadership Certificate.
Does this course offer continuing education credit?
Creighton University is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities. This program is valid for 1.0 PDCs for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification.
Do you offer tuition assistance?
We do not offer tuition assistance for lifelong learning courses or certificates. However, Creighton alumni, faculty, staff and eligible partner employees, along with their spouses and dependents, may qualify for a 15% discount. One discount per offering. Other restrictions may apply. Learn more.