From Stress to Strength, Chaos to Calm and Shit to Shine.
Dealing with Difficult People at Work: From Narcissists to MicroManagers
Learn to handle tough talks, spot toxic behaviors, protect your energy, and navigate micromanagers or narcissists with ease.
Speaker
Barbara Clifford - The Time Tamer
Barbara Clifford
Barbara Clifford is a co-founder ofThe Hinwood Institute. She is the lead trainer and coach in
Time Managementand a recognized leader inStress Management. She is a highly perienced coach, international speaker,columnist, facilitator and accredited mediator. Barbara equips busy business leaders to make courageous decisions in pressure situations for the long-term benefit of their business, team and personal wellbeing. Giving them a sense of order; taking them from chaos to calm and transforming their stress into a source of strength. She lives in the desert of Alice Springs, Australia working with people around the world.
Sometimes you do not really know you need help until you actually get it, and so many things come back into focus. That is how I can best describe my experience working with Barbara Clifford, The Time Tamer.
Rosie, Business Owner
Got Question?
In your quest to handle difficult conversations and navigate toxic behaviours, you likely have questions. If you're just a little bit curious, here are answers to some of the most common challenges. Still curious? Join our webinar to uncover the secrets to staying confident, calm, and in control—even in the trickiest situations.
We've got answers
What are the best ways to prepare for a difficult conversation in advance?
Preparation is critical. Start by identifying the outcome you want, gather the facts, and consider the other person’s perspective. Rehearse your opening statement to set the tone and ensure you’re ready to listen actively.
How do I spot toxic behaviours before they impact my mental health?
Look for patterns such as constant negativity, blaming others, or manipulative tactics like guilt-tripping or gaslighting. Recognising these early gives you a chance to create emotional distance and safeguard your wellbeing.
How can I recognise a micromanager or narcissist in the workplace?
Micromanagers often hover, distrust delegation, and obsess over small details. Narcissists may dominate conversations, lack empathy, and constantly seek validation. Spotting these traits early helps you adjust your approach to minimise frustration.
What are effective strategies for working with a narcissist or micromanager without losing my cool?
For narcissists, validate their contributions without overpraising. Stay assertive and avoid feeding their ego. With micromanagers, provide regular updates and reassure them of your progress—this can help reduce their need for control.
How can behavioural awareness improve my resilience in high-stress situations?
Understanding your own triggers and responses helps you stay calm under pressure. Being aware of others’ behaviours also allows you to anticipate challenges and prepare effective responses, giving you more control in tense situations.
