I am including a very interesting blog post on energy drainers from a colleague of mine, Linda Byars Swindling. Thanks to Linda for giving me permission to use her fascinating information to share with you.
Stop Complainers & Energy Drainers: How to Negotiate Work Drama to Get More Done is an excellent read.
How to Identify a Controller.
When people use F-bombs and complain to intimidate and motivate others to act, they are Controllers. These Complainers appear as tyrants, bullies and slave drivers. Think of “Monster Trucks” – these people are aggressive, loud and ready to roll over you to get to their destination. Controllers want you to yield to their authority and they push hard to confront obstacles and get results. Controllers use complaining to get things done.
How Controllers Affect the Workplace.
They are the harassers of the workplace. Morale and production go down when people feel intimidated and employees and coworkers cope by keeping secrets from the Controller. Creativity and risk-taking shut down which causes top performers to leave and go work elsewhere.
How to Work with a Controller.
You can’t use excuses, finger pointing or a detailed account of what went wrong when negotiating with a Controller. Instead, be ready to provide answers and show progress on the work that’s been completed.
How to Negotiate with a Controller. Stand. Deliver. Let Them Decide.
- Stand your ground. Be assertive and confident but not aggressive when you respond.
- Let the Controllers know that you heard the problems or challenges and that a plan is in place to fix the situation.
- Let Them Decide. When possible, give Controllers the opportunity to make a decision from a narrow selection of options
(that YOU give them) to move forward.
About Linda Swindling, JD, CSP
A recognized authority on negotiations, workplace issues, and persuasive communication, Linda Swindling is a former employment attorney and speaker. Linda has authored over 20 books, including her book Stop Complainers and Energy Drainers: How to Negotiate Work Drama to Get More Done. Follow her on twitter @LindaSwindling or visit LindaSwindling.com.
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Have a great week.
Until next time, Remember…“You Get What You Tolerate!”