3 Ways to Deal With a "Never Wrong" Co-Worker

There are several annoying types of people at work, from the gossiper to the chronic procrastinator to the whiner.

Today, let's talk about the person who is never wrong.

This type of person really is pretty self explanatory -- he would rather cut off a toe than admit he's wrong. He bulldozes through everyone else to get what he wants, not caring if someone else has an opinion or better idea.

While everyone in the office may call this guy several unflattering names, the reality is that such a person may actually have a personality disorder -- or simply low emotional intelligence.

Whatever is going on, you're not a psychologist and you've got to figure out a way to work with this guy (or woman) before you staple him to his desk. Some suggestions:


1. Be precise. If someone lacks emotional intelligence or has little of it, then she isn't going to get some of your more subtle clues that she's making you angry or annoying the crap out of you. Be more clear about how you feel: "Marcia, when you interrupt me in a meeting I feel disrespected. I need you to let me finish what I want to say and then let others respond to it without interrupting and insisting we do it your way."

2. Stay cool. Getting angry isn't going to help because the "always right" colleague will just ramp up his arguments. Try asking more questions about his solution -- get him to reflect more on it and how exactly it will lead to the results that are desired. He may start to back off his "only my way" stance when he sees that his solution isn't going to work.

3. Be fair. When you deal with someone who always has to be right, you can get so defensive that you'd argue with his point that there are seven days in a week. Back off and and pick your battles. Try to dissect his points of view and see if there isn't something that can be of value -- something about which he may be right.

You may balk at the idea of finding common ground with such a personality, but the truth is that none of us is without faults. You may be seen as obstinate or judgmental. Try to find ways to keep communicating with this colleague, and don't dwell on how he behaves -- but more on how you can use his talents to find the right solutions.