Toxic People: Decontaminate Difficult People At Work: Without Using Weapons Or Duct Tape

Chapter 6. The Know-It-All

Take I: How They Sound

Frank was disgusted with the meeting agenda, the client, and his colleagues. Who were the simpletons who continued to question his skill? Didn't they recognize the extent of his expertise? Polly approached Frank about a problem they were having with the client in hopes of setting a plan before the client's arrival. Frank immediately snapped, "I don't know who is more stupid—you or the client!" When the meeting started, Frank's negative attitude and arrogance filled the air. The client was tired of Frank's smart-alecky approach and asked that he be removed from the project. This would be a real problem, because Frank did have excellent knowledge and understood what was needed to satisfy the client.

Names Will Never Hurt Me

The Know-It-All pattern of behavior is all too familiar, especially among technical experts, doctors, engineers, attorneys, and other highly skilled and educated people. It is not exclusive to these people, though, and many other professions share the tendency as well. These people are also called content experts, authorities, and the "always right."

Real experts can be an asset, but beware of the pseudo Know-It-All. They are dangerous because they speak well and make you believe what they are saying, when in fact they could be leading you and your plans astray. Making up details in an effort to look good is their usual method of operation.

What to Look For

Ask a Know-It-All a simple question, and you'll get a response ...