Build your intimidation-free workplace around these critical tips.
Not every work situation is fair, and for those of us who have worked with intimidating people in the workplace, finding the most effective way to deal with them is crucial.
Entering the workplace shouldn’t have to come with the possibility of being intimidated — or bullied, harassed, and subject to abuse.
Sure, intimidating people can be found in almost every workplace.
Their aggressive personalities and confrontational behavior can negatively impact individuals and create a toxic environment.
However, learning how to handle intimidating coworkers professionally is an essential skill for career success.
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What is an Intimidating Person?
An intimidating person uses aggressive tactics to establish dominance and control over others in the workplace. They may use threats, insults, humiliation, criticism, or other means to assert their power. Intimidating behavior is often driven by deep insecurities and the need to feel superior.
The Impact of Intimidating People
Dealing with intimidating coworkers can be extremely stressful. Their behavior can lead to decreased productivity, poor morale, high turnover rates, and even mental health issues among employees.
On an organizational level, the presence of intimidators fosters dysfunction, erodes trust, and damages the company culture.
8 Steps for Handling Intimidating People
Here are 8 techniques for professionally managing intimidating people in your workplace:
- Stay Calm – Do not allow yourself to become visibly upset or emotional. Take deep breaths and keep your composure.
- Set Boundaries – Be clear about what behavior you will not tolerate. State your boundaries professionally and firmly.
- Speak Up – Respectfully confront the intimidator about their unacceptable behavior. Be direct yet composed.
- Limit Contact – Reduce interactions with the intimidating coworker as much as possible. Keep exchanges brief. We hear this from customers looking for learning materials to present personal development training courses.
- Don’t Engage – Do not get drawn into arguments or drama. Disengage and walk away if necessary.
- Find Allies – Build a network of colleagues who can support you. There is strength in numbers.
- Document Incidents – Keep a written record of intimidating encounters should you need evidence.
- Involve Management – If intimidation persists, report the coworker’s behavior to your manager or HR.
Potential Challenges
Trying to deal with an intimidating person can be difficult. Some potential challenges include:
- Feeling powerless against their aggressive tactics
- Struggling not to stoop to their level
- Getting others to believe your experience
- Facing retaliation or escalated attacks
- Dealing with stress, self-doubt, and lowered self-esteem
Having patience and relying on allies and management can help overcome these obstacles.
Conclusion
While dealing with intimidating people is unpleasant, establishing boundaries and responding professionally is key.
Handling their behavior in a composed yet assertive manner will help mitigate the damage done.
With courage and resilience, their power can be diminished.
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With 30+ years of training experience, I founded Oak Innovation (oakinnovation.com) in 1995. I help busy training professionals and business managers deliver better training courses in less time by giving them instant access to editable training course material. I received my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from University College Cork. I hold qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. Clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.
