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Assertiveness Control Freaks Meetings Inconsiderate Actions

Several months ago, my manager asked me to lead a one-hour discussion for our salespeople. Nine of them attended, and so did my manager. After ten minutes, my manager took over and I was left standing in front like a fool. He just asked me to lead another discussion, and I am wondering if I can tell him how I felt about what he did in the first one.



At this point, there is no point to going back and telling him that you are upset over his actions from several months ago. The time for that discussion is long gone.

However, you should meet with him before your next presentation. Although he asked you to lead the discussion, you should make sure the two of you agree over what it means to lead one of these sessions.

Prior to the session, it will be helpful to give him an outline of the items and topics you plan to cover. Ask for his suggestions, make revisions in accordance with them, and then give him back the outline for a final look. Make sure the two of you agree on your role in this session.

If he still takes over the meeting, you should not have an incident in front of the team. Rather, after the discussion is over, meet with him to discuss what happened. Let him see how his actions interfered with the effectiveness of the session and created difficulties for you. His reaction will help you determine what to do if he asks you to "lead" another session in the future.




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