Too often, we stay silent and wish we'd spoken up.
Or we react emotionally and regret it later.
There's a better way to respond with calm, clarity, and strength.
7 ways to handle insults at work:
1. Seek Clarification
↳ Make them reflect on what they said
↳ Did you mean to embarrass me just now?
2. Set Boundaries
↳ Clearly state what behaviour isn't acceptable
↳ That tone is not ok with me.
3. Use the Pause Technique
↳ Strategic silence followed by a calm response
↳ [Pause] Let's take a step back and approach this differently.
4. Mirror With Professionalism
↳ Reflect their behaviour so they confront it
↳ I'm hearing frustration. Is there a bigger issue?
5. Redirect to Solutions
↳ Shift from personal attack to problem-solving
↳ Let's focus on next steps, not assigning blame.
6. Use Humour (if it fits your style)
↳ A light touch can defuse tension
↳ That's one way to start a Wednesday meeting!
7. The Direct Approach
↳ The clearest response is often most powerful
↳ That was inappropriate. Let's restart or pause here.
You don't have to shrink to keep the peace.
Stand your ground with calm power.