Handling Difficult Conversations with Engineers and Designers

In this episode of The Product Handbook, we explore how product managers can navigate tough conversations with engineers and designers — the kind that can make or break collaboration.

You’ll learn:

• How to prepare for difficult discussions with empathy, clarity, and data
• The psychology behind conflict — and how reframing, perspective-taking, and emotional regulation can change the outcome
• Practical tactics for design feedback sessions, sprint debates, and roadmap disagreements
• How to move from tension to alignment by focusing on shared goals and mutual respect

If you’ve ever walked into a meeting knowing it might get uncomfortable, this episode gives you the tools to manage conflict constructively and strengthen your partnerships instead of straining them.