How to Deal With a Difficult Person

At one time or another, we have all dealt with a difficult person. Whether they are hard to communicate with, acting defensive, or just handling a situation inappropriately, interactions with difficult people can affect our confidence, mood, and focus. Learning to recognize and cope with common difficult behaviors in ourselves and others can help make difficult encounters much more manageable.

At the end of this workshop, you will be able to:
Identify common “difficult” behaviors
• Describe what motivates most difficult behaviors
• Identify distinctions between passive, aggressive and passive/aggressive behaviors
• Identify the positive intent behind many difficult-to-understand behaviors
Identify appropriate strategies for dealing with difficult behaviors
• Describe how to maintain composure when responding to difficult behaviors
• Describe ways to defuse aggressive acts in the workplace
Describe five methods for resolving conflict
• Identify your favored style
• Identify tips for improving communication