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. |
Jefferson Fisher
Simple, practical communication advice for your next conversation.
Same tips. Same me. Just adding something new :) If my School of Communication isn’t for you, no worries. My weekly tips aren’t going anywhere. Click here if you’d prefer not to get updates about the School of Communication. Hey Reader, Three years ago, I started sharing communication tips from my car. Hearing how they helped people all over the world was so encouraging. So I kept sharing them. But I noticed something… Those tips? They were only helpful if you remembered them in the moment....
Same tips. Same me. Just adding something new :) If my School of Communication isn’t for you, no worries. My weekly tips aren’t going anywhere. Click here if you’d prefer not to get these updates about the School of Communication. Hey Reader, Every conversation is a choice. The choice to connect or pull away. To speak up or stay silent. To set a boundary or let one slip. And those choices? They shape everything. Your relationships, your career, and your confidence. But here’s the thing: No...
Hey Reader, Ever had someone say something out of line and then brush it off with, “I was just joking”? It’s an easy way to dodge accountability. But you don’t have to let it slide. Here’s 3 ways to respond: #1: My personal favorite: “Then be funnier.” If they claim it was a joke, tell them, “Then be funnier.” You’re making it clear that what they said wasn’t funny. And if they’re aiming for humor, they missed the mark. #2: “I’m surprised by that.” This is a complete power move. When you say,...