Challenging Conversations as an Admissions Team

Challenging conversations don’t have to be conflict-driven, they can be connection-driven, and an opportunity to build trust. A big thank you to Pooja Khetan and her Admissions team for having us the whole afternoon on their recent Professional Development day, embracing one of the trickiest parts of their role: challenging conversations.

Together, we reflected on what makes challenging conversations so hard - the emotions, the values, and the priorities that sit underneath them. Through games, discussions, and practice, we learned how to listen with curiosity, ask questions that seek perspectives, express shared values and goals, and ask requests with respect even when views differ.

When we approach conversations with perspective-taking, empathy, and a coaching mindset, we open the door to collaboration instead of confrontation.

It was inspiring to see how much heart and care this team brings to every interaction with families. When educators and parents meet with shared values, great things happen for students.

We are grateful to Tanglin Trust School and Karam Kulkarni for the invitation and thoughtful organisation; your dedication to growth and partnership made this training a real joy to deliver.