We’ve all been there. You walk into a meeting, ready to share your ideas, but within minutes, a dominant person takes over. How to handle a dominant person: 3 steps to stay confident, keep control, and get what you want.
Their energy is intense. Their words are sharp. And suddenly, you feel small. You start doubting yourself, pulling back, questioning everything.
Then – five minutes after the meeting – you know exactly what you should have said. Sound familiar?
Dominant personalities exist everywhere. They might be your boss, a colleague, or even a client. You’re not meeting them for fun. You need something from this conversation – an answer, a decision, or approval.
But how do you stay strong without getting drained?
The 3-Step Strategy to Handle Dominant People
1. Prepare Like a Pro
Preparation is always key, but with dominant people, it’s non-negotiable.
- Know what you want.
What’s the most important outcome of this meeting? If you get only one thing, what should it be? - Stick to your priorities.
Make a short list of must-haves. If the meeting gets chaotic, you’ll know what to focus on. - Stay on track.
Dominant people often jump from topic to topic. Your preparation keeps you grounded.
2. Control Your Energy
Your energy affects everything. It shapes how people respond to you and how you respond to them.
- Decide how you want to feel.
Do you want to feel powerful? Calm? Focused? - Watch your body language.
Sit tall. Uncross your arms. Stay open. Your posture can shift the power dynamic. - Lower your voice.
If they get louder, don’t match their tone. A steady, calm voice forces them to adjust to you. A dominant person expects you to react like they do. But when you stay centered, they are the ones who feel off balance.
3. Shift the Dynamic With Kindness
This might surprise you, but dominant people are not used to kindness.
- Be unexpectedly friendly.
Ask a neutral question. Show interest. - Don’t rush.
Let silence do the work. Confident people don’t fill the gaps. - Remember: They’re human too.
Most dominant people became that way to protect themselves. When you stay calm and kind, you break the pattern.
Master the Meeting, Get What You Need
When you feel small, you lose power. But the truth is – your power is still there.You just need to access it.
- Prepare your goals.
- Manage your energy.
- Stay friendly but firm.
And suddenly, you’re leading the conversation.
Do you have a meeting with a dominant person soon? Listen or watch the full podcast episode!
Your biggest cheerleader,
– Susan Veldkamp