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Leading Through Tension

Dealing with Communication and Conflict for a Changing World
6 October 2026 - CHRISTCHURCH

In an AI-enabled world, competitive advantage won't come from technology — it will come from people's ability to challenge, collaborate and adapt together.

Organisations navigating transformation succeed or fail on communication. This interactive in-person day explores the communication patterns and conflict dynamics that either accelerate your impact or quietly erode it.

If you lead through complexity, this day is for you.

What You Will Learn

​This is not a session on stakeholder engagement. In this day, we move into the practical dynamics that determine whether transformation conversations open up — or shut down. You will learn to:

  • Recognise how cognitive bias and domain confidence shape the conversations happening in your organisation right now.

  • Understand why certainty can unintentionally shut down cross-disciplinary thinking — and what to do instead.

  • Use positive team dynamics to drive project adoption and reduce resistance to change.

  • Surface unspoken assumptions early and safely — before they derail momentum.

 

You will leave with tools you can use immediately in implementation conversations, steering committees, and cross-functional workshops.

What You Will Get

Our unique coaching-training model ensures you have the time to learn, practise, and reflect.

  • 7 hours of powerful learning 

  • One day in person Christchurch Venue

  • Option Add on two group coaching sessions to embed the skills you want to master

  • Small group work to learn from others and deepen your skill base.

  • Opportunities to practise in a safe setting.

  • Individualised goal setting and learning outcomes.

  • Action plans for your own setting using your own strengths.

Course Investment

Cost: $529 (ex. GST) per person.


To ensure a high-quality, interactive experience with supportive coaching, we have a maximum of 25 participants per course. Spaces are limited.

Meet Your Coaches: Ali & Rachel

Your sessions are led by Ali McCormick and Rachel Hillyer, who combine deep coaching experience with a strategic consulting lens. Ali focuses on the practical skills and confidence you need to lead through pressure, while Rachel ensures every shift in communication aligns with your business goals. Together, they provide a safe, expert environment where you can move beyond "fire-fighting" and start building a team that truly performs.

Discretionary Efforts leadership coaches Ali McCormick and Rachel Hillyer

FAQs about Build Positive Inclusive Teams

All FAQ content authored by Ali McCormick (ICF PCC, MAPP, UCA Master Accredited Coach) and Rachel Hillyer, co-founders of Discretionary Efforts Ltd.

Feedback from Previous Participants

"I feel more confident going into meetings which allows me to focus more on my team."

On Group Coaching Impact: "I have really enjoyed the support of the group and feel very positive with an open mindset moving forwards at work."

Upcoming 2026 Dates

Join our June and July intake to start driving real workplace improvements.

Training Sessions: 

10 & 11 June: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Group Coaching Sessions: 

19 June: 11:00 am – 12:30 pm

26 June: 11:00 am – 12:30 pm

3 July: 11:00 am – 12:30 pm

Ready to Change How Your Team Works?

Stop fire-fighting and start leading. Register today to join our next intake.

REGISTER HERE

Build Positive Inclusive Teams - 2026

(max 15 per course)

Which course dates would you like to register for?

The discount will be applied to your invoice.

Not sure yet?

Looking for Something Different?

If this isn't the right fit for your current challenges, we offer other targeted programmes and a free mini masterclass to help you lead with confidence.

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Learn How to Manage Conflict

Remove the friction caused by poor communication and workplace tension.

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Develop Effective Communication Skills

Improve how you interact to support the execution of your business goals.

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Free 45-Minute Mini Masterclass

Experience our unique coaching-training model in a FREE high-impact session. 

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