My Daily Difficult Conversation!

Was she really that rude?  Oh yeah - she was.

I am buying a few books, (major vice) and a woman storms to the register and demands the sales person clean up a pile of books on the floor. 

No regard for waiting in line.  No regard for manners.  No regard that the person she was directing her ire did not deserve it.

She was ignored by the sales person who was totally engrossed in trying to ring up my books.  She huffed and puffed and rolled her eyes at me about the poor service.

You know what this is?  It is a PERFECT time to practice confrontation!

After the eye roll, I said, “It helps if you say excuse me.”  She was stunned.  She tried to escalate the interaction by directing her anger at me.  “Oh does it?” she said with a sneer.  “Yes, it does” I sadi with a low voice and direct eye contact.

As she walked away - I was thanked by the sales clerk.  And this folks was my difficult conversation of the day!  It is a learned skill people - practice on anyone you can so you will be confortable in the classroom!

Playstation Gets It!

Have you argued with a student?

Admit it - you have.  And even worse - sometimes the student wins.

I know.  Don’t worry - there is a three step program for you.  (Hey it is better than a 12 step!)

First step:“John, please have a seat.”

Second step: “John, sit down.”

Third step: “John, sit.”

Notice there are no comments from the student.  That is because THEY DO NOT MATTER.  What matters is the behavior you expect.  When a student argues or tries to distract you - use repetiion. 

See it in action!  Check out this Playstation commercial.