In life and at the workplace, some people use negative aggression to get their way by intimidating others or to get attention. Occasionally you may have to take a stand, but usually these confrontations can be avoided or diffused in a peaceful manner.
- Walk away, when you begin to feel the tension start to rise, inform the individual that you will speak with them when they are more composed and ready to share their point of view with a calm attitude. This way, all sides of the situation will be represented.
- Ignore them and carry on with what you were doing. Once they realize they cannot intimidate you, they will find something else to do.
- Sometimes people don't realize that they are presenting themselves in an aggressive manner. Make that person aware that you don't appreciate being approached that way. You may just give them something to think about.
- Let them know that their actions and behaviours may have undesirable consequences that can affect them in the future. For example, a bad temperament in the workplace can ruin any chance for promotion or references, having a reputation for being nasty could spoil any chances at a relationship.
- Calmly talk to the individual try to find out what it is that is angering them and actively try to help them find solutions to the problem if you can. Offering suggestions or helping them to find relevant information may bring their ire down. Sometimes, just agreeing with an individual who is angry or aggressive will help to dissolve the situation.
There are times when aggression is a positive thing, it can help us to get things done, and prevents others from “walking all over us” but when it begins to turn into bullying, then it is time to put the brakes on. Remaining cool during a conflict can make the difference between resolving the situation or escalating it.
