Dealing with difficult people can be challenging, but it’s important to handle such situations with tact and professionalism. Here are some strategies:

1. **Stay calm**: When faced with difficult people, it’s essential to remain calm and composed. Take deep breaths to help manage your emotions and respond thoughtfully rather than reactively.

2. **Listen actively**: Pay attention to what the person is saying and try to understand their perspective. Practice active listening by paraphrasing their points and asking clarifying questions to ensure you fully grasp their concerns.

3. **Empathize**: Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes and empathize with their feelings or frustrations. Acknowledge their emotions and demonstrate that you understand where they’re coming from.

4. **Set boundaries**: Establish clear boundaries for acceptable behavior and communicate them assertively but respectfully. Let the person know what behavior is not acceptable and what consequences may result if it continues.

5. **Focus on solutions**: Instead of dwelling on the problem, shift the focus to finding solutions. Collaborate with the person to brainstorm potential resolutions and work together to address the issue constructively.

6. **Stay professional**: Maintain a professional demeanor and avoid getting drawn into personal attacks or power struggles. Keep the conversation focused on the issue at hand and avoid escalating tensions.

7. **Seek common ground**: Look for areas of agreement or shared goals that you can build upon. Finding common ground can help establish rapport and foster a more positive interaction.

8. **Use positive language**: Frame your communication in a positive and constructive manner. Use “I” statements to express your thoughts and feelings without blaming or accusing the other person.

9. **Know when to disengage**: Sometimes, despite your best efforts, it may not be possible to resolve the situation. In such cases, it’s okay to disengage and take a break to regroup. Know your limits and prioritize your well-being.

10. **Seek support**: If you’re struggling to deal with a difficult person, don’t hesitate to seek support from a supervisor, colleague, or HR representative. They may be able to offer guidance or intervene to help resolve the situation.

Remember that dealing with difficult people is a skill that takes practice and patience. By approaching these interactions with empathy, professionalism, and a focus on finding solutions, you can navigate challenging situations more effectively.

by Dr. Gina Prigoff