Crucial conversations usually come at inconvenient times. This makes it even more important to recognize that these conversations are in fact crucial moments, and to be prepared to respond promptly according to your personal objectives and goals. You should also prioritize your needs, so you can start to deal with the content of these conversations. Finally, you need to learn how to best perform and execute the tasks required.
The author emphasizes that recognition is the number-one factor. If your personal objectives and goals are in alignment, you can prioritize them and perform your part of the conversation to your best ability. The author provides advice on all the relevant issues, as well as 10 general tips about on how to maximize opportunity and reduce risk by being prepared for these conversations when they arise.