InterestingMotivational Keynote Speaker Leadership Coaching Training
One of the most powerful tools I have learnt for dealing with Pinches in the workplace is simply to say “Interesting”. I learnt this from my friend and colleague, Bob Vaughan. His advice when confronted by a difficult person is: “Just response with a sincere ‘Interesting’ and don’t’ commit to any other verbal reaction.”
Here is a scenario. You are confronted by an upset fellow employee who claims that all of the work on your project to date has been a waste of time. You may naturally be very upset and even defensive – which won’t help with your response. Instead of defending yourself, simply respond with “Interesting, I haven’t seen it that way.”
While this is noncommittal, it does serve a purpose; you get a chance to assess the situation and think about your options. You can then ask for more information, you can enquire about their reasoning, or you can delay this conversation until you have more time. Either, way you have given yourself some breathing room and not reacted while you are triggered.
Try it the next time you are in a tight spot and feeling yourself getting upset. It’s a very “interesting” experience!
