This is the 3rd article on the topic Working With a Jerk.  There will be more stories like this because my readers have been sending me private messages describing their experiences.  I have enough examples to cover 6 months of articles! 

Here are the links for those who didn’t see the previous articles in the series:

Stop the Rudeness in Your Life:  How to Deal with Jerks #1

Stop Your Self-Doubt with Jerks: #2

Are you ready for this week’s true story?  I hope so because it is another unbelievable one.

Do You Work with a Jerk?:  The Story

Janis and her mom (Pat) work together in a mid-sized company.  Jim is a colleague of theirs and is known for his sarcastic and biting words.  Janis, Pat, and Jim were talking at lunch. And Jim pointed his finger at Janis and said,  “Janis your haircut suits you.  Additionally, your outfit is very professional – not like your mom’s wardrobe.” 

Did you catch your breath?  Yes, this really did happen.

Here are Four Questions if You Work for a Jerk:

1. What would you say to Jim if you were Janis?

2. How would you communicate to Jim if you were Janis’s mother?

3. What would you say to Jim if you were Jim’s boss and heard this interaction?

4. What story do you have about working for a jerk? 

Please add your comments in the comment section.  Additionally, you can send me a private email

Joyce, How Would You Handle This when You Work with a Jerk?

If I were Janis I would step back after the shock wore off and say something to Jim.  We don’t always have to respond immediately. Delaying our words is a great strategy at times. It is smart to back off and create a  plan.  “I was caught off guard” is my favorite phrase to use when I speak to someone the next day. 

“Jim, I was caught off guard when I heard those mean comments about my mom. Especially, when she was standing right next to us.  My mom and I were surprised by such insensitive words. I’m curious if you are aware of how these negative comments came across. The next time you want to speak to us, make sure and think before you speak” 

This way you are setting up a boundary for Jim, and “hopefully” he will respond differently before he opens up his mouth again.  If he repeats his insensitive comments, I would do my best to stay away from him.  He will probably choose someone else to ridicule.

Let’s Stay Connected

Please share your thoughts about this week’s post. How does it resonate with you?
You can share your thoughts in the comment section or send me a private email HERE.

Here are the links for those who didn’t see the previous articles in the series:

Stop the Rudeness in Your Life:  How to Deal with Jerks #1

Stop Your Self-Doubt with Jerks: #2

Until Next Time,

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Communication Coach & Queen of Conflict Resolution

P.S. Please share this post on your social media. As a result, other growth-minded people can reduce their high drama and inner stress.

P.P.S. I’m the Human Resource Professional’s Partner. I coach employees and managers to feel comfortable using their voice without losing their cool – so they feel heard and respected.

P.P.P.S Are you {or your direct reports} ready to explore working with me as your private coach?  It’s easy and fits anyone’s budget and schedule.
Call me at 248.681.5831 or send an email: Joyce@JoyceWeiss.com for a Free 20 – minute discovery call.