Redirect the Conversation

How to Redirect a Conversation when Work Friends Whine

When a friend at work complains, and you’re in no mood to join in, one smart strategy to handle the situation is:

·        Let them talk for a minute or two.

·        Acknowledge the complaint with a neutral line like, “I can see why that bothers you.”

·        Follow the acknowledgement by asking, “What’s gone well for you lately?”

Complaints result from immediate feelings. Things go right and we’re happy. Things go wrong and we complain.

By redirecting thoughts to positive events, you redirect emotions in a positive direction as well.

BTW . . . redirection strategies also come in handy when you talk to customers and they start complaining. Good selling!