ABSTRACT
The influence of one’s nearest and dearest on career decisions is well documented and, while this impact is usually helpful, there can be disagreements about what is the best course of action. Two techniques are introduced in this chapter, both of which have been shown to help people have more effective and more empathic conversations. The first is drawn from Eric Berne’s theory of Transactional Analysis and offers a framework that can help people to better understand the dynamics at play during difficult conversations. The second technique is known as perceptual positions and is a form of imaginary role play in which clients are invited to either re-live or anticipate difficult conversations, playing the part first of their loved one and then of themselves in order to develop their self-awareness and their empathy.
