Ways To Communicate With A Know-It-All

We have all experienced know-it-all people, some friends, family, co-workers or bosses; either way, they are annoying and frustrating to communicate with. 


Key points discussed in this article: 

1. A GREAT CONVERSATIONALIST vs A KNOW-IT-ALL
2. UNDERSTANDING THE KNOW-IT-ALL
3. DEALING WITH THE KNOW-IT-ALL

"the know-it-all differs [from a great conversationalist] in that he or she usually has a condescending, superior attitude. The know-it-all's agenda never lets you forget that he or she is much more intelligent than you are... even if he or she is not!"

"Virtually any time a person strikes such a superior attitude, it stems from insecurity. The know-it-all is probably just insecure about his or her own intellect. Their powerful need to be right (or be perceived as right!) can make them very stubbornly opinionated and argumentative. This especially can make the know-it-all difficult to deal with."

"Arguing with a know-it-all is futile. Persuasion, on the other hand, requires hard facts and solid sources."

"The worst thing you can say to a know-it-all is "You're wrong!" or "That's stupid!" That approach will put the know-it-all into defence mode, and you might as well give up. When correcting or making a point, instead gently validate (or butter up) the know-it-all with statements"

"Most importantly, understand that your frustration may come from your own insecurity. Does the know-it-all's attitude make you feel inferior or less intelligent? What are YOU trying to prove? Remember that no one can "press your buttons" unless there are buttons TO press!" 

http://www.helium.com/items/285789-ways-to-communicate-with-a-know-it-all