Project X, initially successful, is having to stand down approximately 2,000 employees, contradicting the earlier promise of job security for all. Senior management needs help delivering these difficult messages.

The company will offer a leavers package to everyone affected, with support in finding external job opportunities. Luft will help with a learning experience and strategies to navigate staff unrest and high emotional reactions.

Luft designed an interactive and immersive workshop to help managers think about the upcoming challenges, share their hopes and fears, and deliver those challenging messages with skill while managing hostile reactions with empathy and understanding.

Using forum theatre, skilled actor-coaches portrayed the scenario where senior leaders had to deliver difficult news to a large group — showing behaviours to avoid. Participants then guided and instructed the actors to a better outcome.

After facilitated discussion and interactive activities, breakout sessions allowed smaller groups to practise bespoke scenarios in a safe space, receiving real-time and supportive feedback.

Senior leaders underwent an immersive, on-your-feet training session to help them deliver challenging messages to groups of project managers and direct reports, emphasising emotional reaction management and composure in challenging situations.

Through energised and dynamic activities, the group explored their hopes and fears, their strengths and weaknesses, and their expectations.

The forum scenario simulated delivery of a tough message, enabling real-time feedback and skill development.

Participants practised delivering and receiving difficult messages, fostering feedback in a peer-to-peer setting.

Breakout sessions further developed the skills practice, enhancing their capacity to manage emotional reactions and deliver messages with impact and confidence.

Participants left the session with proven frameworks, strategies and personal actions. They felt more confident to engage in these tricky conversations.

‘The forum scenario was brilliant and allowed me to think how I might deliver a difficult message. The feedback and guidance provided by the facilitators was so helpful in building my communication skills and self-confidence.’

‘The skills practice sessions in the breakout rooms was scary at first but by the end, I felt much more confident. The facilitators were supportive and encouraging and really helped make the whole experience impactful.’

‘Stepping into the forum scenario was a game-changer and fun. The skills practice sessions helped me and equipped me with practical tools to navigate emotional reactions more effectively.’