How do you deal with a cocky, know-it-all co-worker?

Question

I deal with a co-worker who is a very disrespectful know-it-all. Granted, she does have a lot of experience in this field, but unfortunately, she does not voice her disapprovement in a "constructive" manner. She will belittle you in front of customers in very sharp words, and won't even help in the solution of the problem. Any advice on what to do when she does it next?

Answer 1

Sounds like a few of my co-workers. In my experiance, I had come very close to telling the manager. I didn't because I thought "maybe they're having a bad day." Still I should've said something. You should too.
Speak to your manager. Tell them how her actions/words are making YOU uncomfortable. Tell them that you understand that such and such has to be done but you don't understand why miss so and so has to talk down on you like that.
Hope this will help.

Answer 2

Usually they don't know a lot. I face the same with my boss. They cover up by talking loudly. I think you don't like to raise your voice. So naturally in front of customers your voice and opinions or suggestions won't be heard. And so most of the time while giving an impression of doing a lot and helping them, these people do nothing but put off the issue.
What to do is brush up your knowledge in your field and other things as well. And during a discussion with clients look at them while this person is talking. You can see how much they are convinced. And once they make eye contact with you they should feel that you know more about the problem. The clients might contact you later if they get the impression that you are competent and understanding.
These people belittle you just to show that they have control over so many that's all. Sharp words will always show how a person really is.

Answer 3

Never. Real creative work can be only with the group of co-workers who are friendly to each other. No any arrogant and cocky persons.

Answer 4

I have dealt with plenty of these types of people. I have come to the conclusion that it is just a show mainly for themselves. You cannot really take it seriously. If she has been there a long time, she may feel somewhat resentful that a newcomer is coming in acting too confident and "know-it-all" when it took her some time to learn things, she may not like it if you are picking up on things too quickly. Other than that, I think it just comes simply down to ego. She may like to view herself as a leader type of person and have a false pride about this (leaders know how to win support from their followers) . Just dont pay too much attention to it and just play along with it. See the other side of her and pity her for wanting to be something where she is "respected and appreciated" even though it may cross your mind that she is arrogant. Just play along and smile.

Answer 5

Don't get into it in front of the customer. As soon as the coast is clear, then tell her. "I expect you to treat me with respect no matter what. I have treated you with respect whether I thought you deserved it or not. I expect the same from you." If she treats you that way again in front of a customer, walk away. Also, be sure you talk to both your supervisors about the way she's treating you. Ask them for help. If they have none to give you, tell them how you will respond the next time she does that.

Answer 6

If she is a manager, you may be stuck with it. If she is simply a coworker, either pull her to the side and tell her you don't appreciate her tone or manner. If that doesn't work take it to a superior if it is truly a problem. If it is simply an annoyance, either put up with it or start looking for another job. Problem is, these people are everywhere.

Answer 7

I have ran into people like this , I have a son in law like this , can never be wrong and has to make a big deal to prove you wrong . well if this is not a boss I would listen to this person once and finding out this is the way she talks I would walk away and not listen , Im sorry there are ways of doing things and thats not the way its done . If it got to bad I would tell this person , if you cant talk to me in a decent tone dont talk to me at all .

Answer 8

Is it her job to supervise you? Or is she the boss? In either case, you'll probably need to find another job. If, on the other hand you are doing a good job, with NO complaints...then tell her to stick it where the sun doesn't shine, but not in front of a customer. Then tell the boss. Stand your ground, or put up with the crap.

Answer 9

Ask her if you could speak to her privately

Then tell her to stop speaking to you like a child

Answer 10

just be patient..u'll get ur reward later on..what would life be without suffering? maybe karma will come to her sooner than later =)