It is really frustrating to try to have a conversation with someone who believes they are always right. You may want to think about what you want to get out of a discussion before starting it. Also, find a way to explain your point of view by taking a different turn on the comparison and taking some measures that will allow you to keep things calm.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Prepare for Discussion
Step 1. Find out the reason for the problem
Typically, people who flaunt skill and know-how about everything are classified into two categories (or a combination of both). Some have a deep sense of personal insecurity and try to mask it by enriching themselves culturally. Others are convinced they know everything, so they never miss an opportunity to flaunt what they have learned. By understanding what an individual's bravado depends on, you will be able to handle the situation better.
- When you tell a person who flaunts what he knows he is wrong, you are only provoking his insecurity and putting him on the defensive. Instead, try asking her some slightly biased questions. This method is effective with those who belong to the insecure category.
- With the second group, it is often best to let them speak and then try to express your opinion.
Step 2. Determine how much you intend to jeopardize your relationship
Before plunging headlong into an argument with a self-styled all-rounder, think about what you are willing to lose. In other words, ask yourself how important your relationship with the other person is and whether the position you intend to defend is important. Regardless of how cautious you are, a heated exchange of views can jeopardize relationships.
- For example, if it's your boss, you probably want to let him think what he wants so you don't endanger your job.
- If it's someone you have a close relationship with, like your spouse or close friend, try to figure out if it's worth arguing.
Step 3. Decide what you want to achieve from the comparison
Every discussion should aim for a goal. Perhaps, on your part, you want the other party to look at the situation from your point of view or to admit that they hurt you. Whatever it is, you need to keep it clear in mind before you open your mouth.
Step 4. Check the facts before you begin
If the dispute revolves around a fact, check every aspect of the story. If you can, gather evidence to support your position. However, when studying the situation, stick to unbiased sources instead of using only those that provide information useful to your cause.
Part 2 of 3: Helping the Other Person See From Your Point of View
Step 1. Listen to what he has to say
Even if your interlocutor thinks he is always right, he deserves to be heard as much as you do. So, don't hesitate to pay close attention to his reasoning.
To show that you are listening to him, try nodding and briefly summarizing his speech, for example like this: "So, you are telling me that…"
Step 2. Ask a few questions to understand better
It is likely that your interlocutor does not clearly express the deeper aspects of their point of view. Furthermore, by questioning him, you will be able to understand more precisely his consideration of the problem and what his opinion is.
Even a few simple questions, like "Why?" or "How did you come up with that?" can help you understand what is moving beneath the surface
Step 3. Agree and then express your objections
To argue with someone who thinks they know everything, you must first show yourself on their side, or at least admit you understand their point of view. After that you can move on to counter.
- For example, you might say, "I understand what you are saying. It's an interesting argument, but I think…".
- You could also reply: "Thank you for letting me know your position. Now I understand what you meant, but my point of view is a bit different…".
Step 4. Don't scare the other person when you formulate your thoughts
If you have a hostile approach, your interlocutor may close in a hedgehog. However, if you present your observations in a quiet tone, they will be more likely to listen to you.
- For example, instead of saying, "I'm definitely right", try "Well, what I've read is this …"
- Instead of saying: "Here is the right point of view …", you could address yourself in this way: "Maybe there are other implications in this whole story …".
Step 5. Avoid a direct confrontation
Sometimes, when you express an opinion that is too direct, the person in front of you falls silent and does not listen, as happens when you explain yourself in an aggressive way. Whether it's advice or solutions, you don't necessarily want to listen to what you're saying.
- When you want to make your interlocutor think in a certain direction, you may find that the use of leading questions is more effective than a direct confrontation.
- For example, you might ask, "What makes you think that?" instead of saying, "It seems wrong to me."
- Instead of "This is absolutely wrong", try "Have you ever thought…?".
Part 3 of 3: Maintaining a Calm Tone
Step 1. Don't precipitate the situation
During an argument, you might give in to the temptation to get hot. Emotions take over and both interlocutors lose their temper. If you allow anger to prevail, the confrontation turns into an exchange of insults and screams. The risk of the situation getting out of hand is very high when you are arguing with a know-it-all, as it could get on your nerves. However, you need to stay calm if you want to get any results.
If your nerves are on edge, take a moment to breathe deeply. You may also want to ask to resume the discussion later when you are both calmer and more relaxed
Step 2. Don't cross your arms
Body language clearly expresses what you are feeling as you speak. If you communicate closure during an argument, your interlocutor will not be inclined to open up either.
Stop crossing your arms, don't cross your legs, and position your body in front of the other person. Also, try to make eye contact so that she knows you are listening to her
Step 3. Open your mind to another point of view
Sometimes, even know-it-all people can be right. When you find yourself arguing with them, you need to be willing to admit your mistakes, otherwise you won't go anywhere.
Step 4. Know when it's time - and how - to walk away
Sometimes, when you realize that no one can win, it's best to end the conversation. However, you shouldn't be hostile, or the other person will continue to argue.
- You could end by saying, "Well, I see we're not going anywhere. I guess we just have to accept that we disagree."
- You could also put it this way: "I'm sorry we can't agree on this. Maybe we can pick it up again."
