subject: How to Deal with Cranky People [print this page] 4. Wait for agreement. Sit down if possible when delivering criticism. Arguments tend to escalate when people are standing. Imagine this. A frustrated employee tries to provoke a co-worker. It works; he's mad. But instead of traditionally flaring up, he stops and realizes he's angry, reflects on the reason and responds with an honest expression of his emotion. He says, "I want to understand what you're saying and I'm feeling frustrated that we can't come to terms with this. I don't dislike your idea; I'm just finding it hard to concentrate because we are both so emotionally charged." There is nothing more disarming than an honest and clear expression of emotion. Honesty disarms crankiness.
