what to say when someone talks down to you



Hey Reader,

Someone talked down to you. How do you respond?

Here are my 3 go-to responses:

1: Flip the script.

When someone is belittling you, turn the tables. Say, “The way you’re treating me is beneath me.”

It reverses the power dynamic, putting you back in control and forcing them to reconsider their approach.

2: Assert your authority.

Use the words “allow” and “give” to maintain your stance.

For example, “I will allow you to try that again,” or “I will give you the chance to rephrase.”

It’s a clear signal that you’re in charge of how you’re treated.

3: Reset the terms.

Lay down the ground rules with the phrase “I’m willing.”

Like, “I’m willing to have this conversation if you speak to me respectfully.” It sets clear boundaries for how the interaction should continue.

Next time someone talks down to you, remember these responses.

They’re not just replies. They’re declarations of your self-respect.

- J.

P.S. Remember, it's not just about what they say, but how you respond. Keep these tips in your back pocket for those tricky conversations.


Read all of my past emails here.

Not getting the info you want? Update your preferences. No longer want to hear from me? Unsubscribe here.

156 S. Main Street Ste 300 #769, Lumberton, TX 77657

Jefferson Fisher

Simple, practical communication advice for your next conversation.

Read more from Jefferson Fisher

Hey Reader, This week inside the School of Communication, we practiced pausing for others. Most people think the pause is for them - a moment to collect thoughts, find the right words, or calm down. And yes, it does all of that. But the real purpose of the pause is the person across from you. When you pause, you give them space to fully finish before you respond. It's been powerful to watch how that small shift has shown up for our members this week. Let’s get into this week’s 3 things. #1....

Hey Reader, This week, I sat down with Shawn Johnson and Andrew East to talk about marriage. Shawn is an Olympic gold medalist and Andrew is a former NFL player. Not only are they a power couple, but they are some of the most kind and down to earth people I’ve ever met. Together, they’ve built businesses, raised kids, written a new book called The Courage to Commit, and spent the last 10 years learning how to build a marriage that actually lasts. What I appreciated most about this...

Hey Reader, May has a way of speeding everything up. The warmer weather and longer days have my kids drinking more of their favorite “salty water” (and me too!). As summer plans ramp up, it becomes easy to rush conversations. This week, let’s change that. #1. From My Inbox: “How do you respond to someone that is constantly bragging? I don't want to be mean spirited, but I get tired of hearing how wonderful they are.” Wanting to stop the monologue isn’t mean spirited and it can be done in a...