Dealing with Disrespect in the Workplace

Unfortunately, as administrative support professionals, we bear the brunt of rude, disrespectful behavior in office environments from time to time. Most times it is intentional, but there are occasions when the offender doesn’t realize they are coming across that way. In either case, we have to be prepared to respond in a way that is professional and courteous, even though the behavior we have been subjected to is far from that. We do this because not only are we representing ourselves, but we are representing the individual(s) we support.

Here are some strategies to keep in mind when dealing with disrespectful people:

1) Listen to what they are saying: Oftentimes the rudeness they are displaying has nothing to do with you. You are more than likely bearing the brunt for a previous encounter they have had with someone else, or maybe even a personal matter they are dealing with. Through active listening, try to see if you can pick up on what the issue is and then address it.

2) Empathize with them: Try to keep in mind that we all have bad days from time to time.

3) Don’t allow their behavior to change your behavior at that moment: When we react to a person’s rudeness, we are essentially letting them have control over us. Be responsible for your emotions whenever possible. The calmer you remain, the better chance you have at diffusing the situation. Also, discuss the encounter with someone you trust to gain perspective on the situation. The person may also have some productive advice or suggestions for moving forward.

4) Allow some time to pass prior to confronting the behavior: Before you give that person some feedback on how the interaction made you feel, wait 24 hours, or until your emotions have calmed down. Then be sure to let that person know how their actions made you feel. If the behavior continues, you may need to escalate it to your executive or involve human resources if appropriate.

As administrative support professionals, it is important to institute professional boundaries in our work environments. One such safeguard includes how you deal with disrespectful behavior. It will inevitably happen, regardless of where you work. Therefore, have a response plan in place before it occurs. By doing so, you will present a productive, professional image.?

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