How to Deal With Overbearing People at Work
- 1). Set boundaries. Say "no" when you already have too much work on your plate. Don't assume your boss or coworkers will see this as a sign of incompetence or laziness. Your colleagues will probably come to respect you for setting realistic goals for yourself.
- 2). Do your work. Show up on time, meet deadlines and contribute your fair share to brainstorming sessions or group projects. Remember that if you're pulling your weight and meeting the requirements of the job, it's less likely that a boss or coworker will have reason to bully you.
- 3). Be direct but professional about how you're feeling. Thwart passive-aggressive behavior by confronting it head on. Tell your co-workers and boss if their behavior is making you feel uncomfortable and that you'd like to do something to solve the problem and create a friendlier, peaceful working environment.
- 4). Sympathize with the overbearing people at work. Remember they're probably putting pressure on you because someone else is putting pressure on them. Be as helpful as you can and put overbearing people at work at ease by letting them see you're on their side, not against them.
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