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Part 1 of Basic Response Techniques:
Create Failsafe Responses
Never be caught flat-footed. Create a simple, failsafe response that you can fall back on. That will allow you to respond with dignity, regardless of the situation.
A failsafe response is critical when you are dealing with a screamer or backstabber. If a bully causes you to lose control of your emotions, you can still respond effectively.
If you're not sure of a good response in the heat of the moment, don't say anything that could be counter-productive. Either use the failsafe response, or ask the bully questions until you have evaluated the situation.
Never trust your natural response, particularly if it arises out of emotion. It is probably the wrong response in your effort to defeat a bully.
| Failsafe Response Technique | |
| Step 1 |
If the bully is in the process of a lengthy attack,
interrupt him (see How to Interrupt a Bully) |
| Step 2 | Excuse yourself and leave |
| Step 3 | After you have calmed down, you can return to face the bully |
Here are a few specific types of failsafe responses you can practice at home:
| Twelve Failsafe Responses |
|
1.
Will you excuse me? I'm going to get a drink of water.
2. Excuse me, but I need to go to the restroom. 3. Pardon me, but I need to make a phone call. 4. I'm headed out to lunch, but we can talk later. 5. I have to go meet somebody. I'll see you later. 6. I have to go now. Let's get together later. 7. I want to hear you out. But first I need to ______. 8. Excuse me, I need to go. We can finish this later. 9. I want to get this resolved. Can we meet sometime to talk about it? 10. I'll talk to you later. 11. Can we talk about this later? 12. Smile and act amused. Maybe you're right. Will you excuse me? Then turn and walk away |