Book Review: Fierce Conversations

by Andrew Downing

For my review each month I usually borrow the book from the library. However, after reading the first chapter of Fierce Conversations, by Susan Scott, I had to buy a copy for myself so I could highlight important passages and take notes. It's that good! Plus, Fierce Conversations pairs perfectly with last month's book, The Art of Gathering, where readers learned how to create communities through gatherings.  In this month's book readers are coached on how to make those gatherings more impactful using difficult conversations.

Susan Scott is a business community thought leader, encouraging CEOs to talk about tough issues. A great book for everyone, Fierce Conversations provides the tools "to accomplish the goals of conversation, which are to interrogate reality, provoke learning, tackle tough issues, and enrich the relationship."

Every team has underlying issues that nobody wants to talk about. The best leaders know how to address these issues and do it while strengthening relationships. Scott shows you how to start those meaningful conversations, give effective feedback, and take responsibility.

Fierce Conversations is a very useful book, especially for first-time managers facing new and challenging situations.