How to reply to put-downs

Bill Repp

provides some responses on how to be firm dealing with put-downs:

Put-down: "That's pretty good, coming from you -- I mean you're so new to the office."

Response: "Why, thank you; I've always enjoyed being able to pick up things faster than most people."

Put-down: "I read your little report. Not bad. I'll show you how we can fix it."

Response: (Cheerfully) "Well, thanks for your little comment. Actually, I like the current format and style. After I've submitted it, I'd be glad to hear your ideas for other options."

Put-down: "Did you do the best you could? Are you sure?"

Response: "Actually, I make it a practice to do my best with everything I do, as I'm sure you've noticed, so it's not something I have to think twice about. Is there something else you think should be included in the project that you'd like to tell me about now? I can easily add your ideas."

Put-down: "So you had a job to do and you failed."

Response: "Actually, I succeeded. I completed the job within the guidelines set, took less time than expected, and met all the requirements. Let me share the directions I received, and show you what I did."