Working With Difficult People
Difficult people have a different definition for different people. There are the 'ego buster's – that person who knows everything and is more than willing to share their enlightened ideas and thoughts with you. The humble helper is the person who is always within an elbows reach and can find and produce anything you want or need. It's just luck though and they wouldn't or couldn't take a compliment if it was packaged as chocolate mousse. Their humility is fake and it makes you uncomfortable just to be around them.
The meanie is far more overt, but seemingly innocent. This is the person who tells you what to do ( or makes you the last one to know what's going on) obviously on purpose yet, when confronted, completely denies any attempt to offend.
The definitions could go on and one – but you know the personality that drives you to distraction. This is the one who makes your job so difficult. Though intensely frustrating, these people do have a right to live and be loved. Here are a few hints to make being around them much more tolerable.
Commandments for Communicating, Coping and Controlling
Accept all people as worthy human beings----you don't have to accept what they do or say.
Provide lots of tender, loving care and genuine concern for all people.
Develop a positive self-image and use a positive approach when dealing with people.
Handle situations in a mature manner, never allowing other people to bring you down to their level.
Observe patiently and objectively all interations with people.
Communicate effectively...make sure people understand what you expect and what the consequences will be.
Listen carefully to what people say...in response, don't lecture or moralize.
React.....but don't over-react to situations.
Be firm, fair, consistent, and honest.
There is no single method that works with all people...analyze the personality of the person you are dealing with and adapt your personality accordingly.
Keep in mind that you are human, too; therefore, you will make mistakes...no one has all the answers.
Above all … treat other people as you would like to be treated.
Charles Jackard and Pat Fornelli