Dealing with Workplace Manipulators

​Nearly everyone has run into manipulative co-workers. And sometimes those manipulators rise through the ranks quickly. They can give the appearance of productivity even if their tactics cause others to be stressed and less productive. 

Liz Kislik, an organizational coach who teaches at NYU and Hofstra University, offers these strategies for dealing with manipulators, “even if you have less rank, power, or status”:
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• Be willing to risk small public confrontations. When someone has the skill, the nerve and the wit to confront a manipulator who subverts normal standards of fair play, it can throw them off their game. Keep in mind that being assertive is not the same as being aggressive.   (Tweet it!)

• Refuse to keep secrets or otherwise normalize underhanded behavior. Don't be taken in by the implied flattery of someone sharing confidences with you—especially if those confidences involve co-workers. “Ask for details and specifics to flush out their intent: ‘I’m not sure I understand what you mean. Why are you telling me this? What is it you’re asking me to do?’”

Have you encountered a manipulative person in your workplace, and how have you protected yourself around that person? To join the conversation, click "comments" above. If you would like to learn more about creating a habit around masterful communication, check out our online learning programs.  

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