Dealing with Those “Know-It-All” Types
August 5th, 2006 (Communication)
“Know-It-Alls” feel compelled to impress and dominate you with what they believe to be their vast experience and superior knowledge. Know-It-Alls like to see themselves as experts and believe that they always have the right answer to any problem! While they may be well meaning, Know-It-Alls try to overwhelm you with facts to prove they are right, minimize your level of understanding, and pressure you into accepting their expert advice.
Know-It-Alls sound something like this:
“Listen to me, kid, because when it comes to. . . , I know what I’m talking about.”
“It’s pretty obvious that you don’t have a clue as to what this issue is all about. You’d better let me make this decision for you.”
“I’ll tell you exactly what you should do.”
“Look, let me explain it so that even a simpleton like you can understand!”
You can question the wisdom of the Know-It-All’s advice without getting into an argument or making him or her feel snubbed and insulted. This three-step strategy can help you tactfully cope with a pushy Know-It-All:
- Restate the main points.
- Ask detailed follow-up questions.
- Ask for a solution to a worst-case scenario.