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Manage episode 487922615 series 3657176
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Summary
In this episode, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenges of giving feedback to defensive coworkers. She explores the reasons behind defensive behavior (including low self-esteem and past criticism), the importance of understanding it, and offers strategies for effectively providing feedback. Christa emphasizes the need for self-care, resetting conversations, and seeking support when dealing with defensiveness in the workplace. She also provides resources for further understanding and managing defensive behavior in the workplace.
Key Takeaways
· Defensive behavior often stems from past criticism or low self-esteem.
· It's essential to separate the feedback from the defensive behavior.
· Self-care is crucial when dealing with defensive co-workers.
· Resetting the conversation can help in addressing issues constructively.
· It's crucial to manage your own reactions to defensiveness.
· Consider the urgency of the feedback when addressing defensive behavior—you may need time.
· Private and direct approaches may not always be effective.
· Seek support when needed.
· Resources are available for further guidance on managing defensiveness in the workplace.
Additional Resources
Bailey, E. (2023, July 7). Ways to manage defensive behavior. Training. https://trainingmag.com/ways-to-manage-defensive-behavior/
Davey, L. (2025, April 29). Understanding defensive behavior in the workplace. Liane Davey. https://lianedavey.com/understanding-defensive-behavior-in-the-workplace/
How managers should respond to defensiveness after feedback - Jacob Kaplan-Moss. (n.d.). https://jacobian.org/2021/mar/23/addressing-defensiveness/
PsyD, E. D. (2023, November 13). Five tips for coaching Defensive Employees. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2023/11/13/five-tips-for-coaching-defensive-employees/
Qi, F., & Ramayah, T. (2022). Defensive silence, defensive voice, knowledge hiding, and counterproductive work behavior through the lens of Stimulus-Organism-Response. Frontiers in Psychology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.822008
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Chapters
1. Understanding Habitual Defensiveness in the Workplace (00:00:00)
2. Strategies for Providing Feedback to Defensive Coworkers (00:05:18)
3. Resources and Support for Managing Defensive Behavior (00:09:32)
25 episodes
