Confrontation is an essential part of leadership, but it is also probably the least enjoyable time as a leader. We never think of confronting someone for change and get excited about how easy the conversation is going to be. However, there are a couple key ingredients to a successful confrontation.

As an effective leader, you really should spend a moment to think about the location and environment of where you will bring confrontation. This tends to be one of the most overlooked aspects and then we find ourselves bewildered, looking for somewhere to have this awkward conversation. You see, as the leader, it is our responsibility to create the safe environment where healthy confrontation can take place. When you create a safe zone, you will eliminate any unnecessary challenges in having a serious conversation.

Here are a couple of keys to winning in this area:

• Confront in private – people will shut down and shut up when they are embarrassed and/or humiliated.
• Make sure to have a relaxed tone and body language – chances are, if you come across tense and uncomfortable, they will feel that too.
• Remember to keep your hands to yourself – there is no need to place your hands on someone to be throwing the “accusing” finger around. No one likes the image of the boss shoving their finger in someone’s face.

The next time you need to confront someone, think about the location of where you are going to be confronting them. Is it quiet enough? Is it private enough that they will not be embarrassed? Does it create a “safe zone”?

Remember, successful confrontations do not happen by accident.

Aaron Beeler has served at Teen Mania Min­istries for over 3 years as an Event Man­ager with Acquire the Fire and now the Lead­er­ship &  Train­ing Man­ager for Global Expe­di­tions. He has served in lead­er­ship on 7 mis­sion trips all over the world, and has a pas­sion to reach and teach people.