Coffey visits with Kristi Spaethe about having awkward but necessary conversations in the workplace.

They discuss the challenges leaders face in giving honest feedback, ways to manage the fears such conversations bring, the mistake of being too nice in these conversations, and the trap of sandwiching feedback with compliments.

They also talk about the importance of addressing issues a timely manner, preparing for difficult conversations, responding thoughtfully to emotional responses, and following up with the individual after the conversation.

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Kristi Spaethe

Kristi Spaethe is President and Principle Consultant of The People Perspective, LLC, an HR Consulting firm helping organizations realize their Best Practices in Human Resources. With 15 years’ experience in “all things HR”, Kristi’s past experience includes companies such as QuikTrip, Solvay, NORDAM and SBS Industries.

Kristi earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a Human Resources Development option and also holds the PHR and SHRM-CP certifications.

Kristi is the current OKHR State Direct-Elect for the Oklahoma Human Resources State Council where she has served in prior various roles beginning in 2018. Kristi has also served in various roles with the Tulsa Area Human Resources Association, including President, since 2014. Additionally, Kristi has served on the Bixby Metro Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and is a mentor and subject matter expert with SCORE Tulsa. Kristi also gives back to the community by giving her time to non-profit organizations such as Women in Recovery and Muddy Paws.

Kristi received the President’s Award from the Tulsa Area Human Resources Association in 2016 and the Richard R. Messer Excellence in Human Resources award in 2019. She also received the Oklahoma Human Resources Award of Excellence in 2020. The People Perspective has also been nominated for Small Business of the Year with the TYPROS Boomtown Awards in 2020 and for Small Business of the Year, Woman Owned Business of the Year and Kristi as Entrepreneur of the Year with the Bixby Metro Chamber of Commerce in 2021.