Be BRAVE: Tackling Courageous Conversations

Kelly Dunkle
Executive Office Manager
Cottleville Fire Protection District

Are you frustrated with a co-worker’s poor performance but unsure how to address it? Does the thought of conversing with someone with a different opinion intimidate you? Are you hesitant to engage with certain coworkers knowing the conversation could go south? If you lead a team, your job responsibilities require having tough conversations often, but that does not mean you are always comfortable having them. Regardless of your position at home or work, we all have opportunities for courageous conversations. In this presentation, Kelly Dunkle will explain the importance of these conversations and how to make them more comfortable and effective. She will discuss:

• Factors leading to fear of tough conversations

• How to prepare for the conversation

• How being B.R.A.V.E. will help keep the conversation going in a positive direction

• The importance of and how to follow up

During the presentation, you will learn the following:

• Why people do not engage in difficult conversations
• The difference between a disciplinary conversation and a tough conversation
• How to prepare for difficult conversations
• How to successfully navigate through a difficult conversation
• When and how to utilize tools for successful documentation and follow-up

More about Kelly:

Kelly Dunkle is a dynamic professional dedicated to the principles of kindness, consistency, and continuous improvement. Kelly’s journey in the world of HR began with a strong desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Kelly obtained her undergraduate degree in Human Resources Management from Lindenwood University. She is SHRM-CP and PHR certified. She has two Masters Degrees from Webster University, one in Human Resources Development and the other in Management and Leadership. Kelly spent 10+ years in HR at a private-sector global manufacturer and then moved to the public sector as the Executive Office Manager of Cottleville Fire Protection District in 2020.

Beyond her profession, Kelly is engaged in various organizations that share her commitment to bettering people’s lives. She serves as a Trustee for the Local 2665 Firefighters Health and Welfare Trust, is the Secretary for the local Lewis and Clark Chapter of SHRM, and a Director for Cottleville Firefighters Outreach. She is also actively involved as a member of Athena Leadership and LBB: Women in Business.

Kelly is a passionate advocate for open communication and education, firmly believing that these elements are key to enhancing the well-being and success of any organization. She is an advocate for open and honest dialogue, encouraging individuals to address difficult subjects with courage and compassion. Her expertise in this area has made her a sought-after speaker, providing guidance and inspiration to students and organizations on how to engage in these crucial conversations. Above all else, Kelly is a wife to Philip and a mom to her 6-year-old son Rowan. They love to travel and adventure through life together.

This is a brown bag lunch event.  However, ATHENA will be providing beverages and a light dessert.  The event will be held in the Partner’s Room at the EDC.

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