Every once in a while, you’ll come across an individual that knows everything. At least, they act like they know everything. And they’ll make sure everyone else know they know everything.
Dealing with these individual can be very challenging, and will test your patience.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that the person exhibiting these behaviors either
- Has an unsatisfied need to be acknowledged
- Is insecure
Secondly, how you handle them requires a plan.
Here are some recommended approaches:
- Keep your emotions in check – this isn’t about you
- Learn what triggers them and then try to avoid those triggers
- Thank them for their contributions and mention how you appreciate them taking the time to share their thoughts with you
- If they are in position of authority, feed them ideas and ask them what they think.
- Sample wording: “I feel like this is the right approach. What do you think?” (This precise wording came from my friend, Samantha, a business management coach)
- The trick here is “feel” is a submissive term and “think” is a dominate one. This gives them the illusion of being in control.
- Give an explanation of your thought process and how your solution will lead to positive results for the team
- Don’t confront them in front of a group. Instead, consider a quick 1-1 meeting to share ideas and then bring up the goal of working together instead of against each other.
- Sample wording: “We should work on this project as a team, and I know we won’t always agree. I’d believe the results will be the best if it includes both our ideas.”
The takeaway
You’ll come across several confrontational individuals during your career. Learning how to deal with them is a vital part of being a good consultant.
Category:
Communication