When dealing with a bully, you have to stay calm and polite, or you could end up in a slanging match, which the bully will win; they’ve had the practice. Or you’ll be accused of being the real bully
People think better when they are calm. I’m in a meeting with a manager who likes throwing their weight around. When I refuse to agree with what they are saying, they shout at me: “WE’RE SUPPOSED TO BE WORKING TOGETHER ON THIS, JANE!” “Well, I’m not raising my voice,” I calmly respond. They are stunned into an embarrassed silence for the rest of the meeting. Not everyone present was pleased that I’d challenged this manager.
Bullying behaviour is not limited to those who lack popularity or talent. It is important to avoid excusing inappropriate behaviour based on someone’s popularity or abilities.
Learn to recognise all the behaviours that indicate someone might be a bully, and learn how to politely flip their script.
The bully has had years of practice at losing their temper. Get some practice at keeping yours and learn how to flip their script: https://tinyurl.com/5yjnkjjp
#TemperTemper
