Dealing with a know-it-all can be frustrating especially in the fulfillment of tasks and responsibilities. In a professional setting, it's important to keep emotions in check before confronting a colleague with whom there are disagreements. Business coach Emile Haddad shares some ways to approach the workplace know-it-all.
Don't be afraid to engage
Know-it-alls tend to think that their way is the best. While some of them are actually good at what they do, the contributions of other team members could be more valuable. In this case, it's okay to engage. Don't be afraid to question their points or to verbalize the possibility of a better option. To prevent embarrassing the all-knowing co-worker, always remember to be courteous and diplomatic. In the process, encourage them to listen to what others are saying.
Confront, don't compete
When there's a know-it-all in the team, some people choose to put on their competitive face, ruining the dynamic. This might also send the wrong message to the difficult co-worker, making them think that they're being challenged. Emile Haddad suggests confronting the person in private to avoid embarrassment and conflict within the team. Leaders must also state the importance of collaboration and cooperation within the group.
Delegate specific tasks
Some people who seem to know it all just want to share their knowledge. But there are employees who want to assert their position over others even when they're clearly in the wrong. For difficult co-workers who still won't change even after confrontation, delegating tasks that will challenge their skills can be a good solution. This will require them to focus and put their knowledge to good use without compromising the team's performance.
Emile Haddad of Seattle is a business coach and consultant. His focus is helping entrepreneurs with their bottom line through simple yet effective learning plans. Visit this page to learn more.
Don't be afraid to engageKnow-it-alls tend to think that their way is the best. While some of them are actually good at what they do, the contributions of other team members could be more valuable. In this case, it's okay to engage. Don't be afraid to question their points or to verbalize the possibility of a better option. To prevent embarrassing the all-knowing co-worker, always remember to be courteous and diplomatic. In the process, encourage them to listen to what others are saying.
Confront, don't competeWhen there's a know-it-all in the team, some people choose to put on their competitive face, ruining the dynamic. This might also send the wrong message to the difficult co-worker, making them think that they're being challenged. Emile Haddad suggests confronting the person in private to avoid embarrassment and conflict within the team. Leaders must also state the importance of collaboration and cooperation within the group.
Delegate specific tasks
Some people who seem to know it all just want to share their knowledge. But there are employees who want to assert their position over others even when they're clearly in the wrong. For difficult co-workers who still won't change even after confrontation, delegating tasks that will challenge their skills can be a good solution. This will require them to focus and put their knowledge to good use without compromising the team's performance.
Emile Haddad of Seattle is a business coach and consultant. His focus is helping entrepreneurs with their bottom line through simple yet effective learning plans. Visit this page to learn more.
