When someone is 100% sure that they’re right, convincing them otherwise can be tricky. To help the person consider another point of view, use two conversation cues. The first is to ask questions: If the know-it-all is clinging to one side of an issue, you can say something like, “Have you ever seen a situation where the opposite was true?” Try to get them to rethink their assumptions and look at the situation differently. If questions don’t work, use the second approach: stall for time. For example, you might delay the conversation to gather data that supports your argument. You can say, “Before we make a decision, I’d like to collect some data on how our people view their service quality. We can meet again next week to discuss it.” Then use that time to consider other options or seek colleagues’ advice on how to change the know-it-all’s mind.

Adapted from “How to Deal with the Know-It-All in Your Office,” by Priscilla Claman

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