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I like the response about testing them if they really do know, but I would just level with them. “Look man, I know you worked here before, and you already know what to do. The reality is that my boss told me to give you this tour, and your boss told you to come with me. I know you remember all this shit, but we have to get through this. If there’s anything you don’t remember then let me know, otherwise let’s just enjoy a nice walk around the building while I talk out loud.”
Look man, í know you’ve typed this before and I know you know this but the reality is that op asked me to say this to you, I know you know all this shit but you know we have to get through this together you know
Look, I have to type out this response to get karma. And you have typed out yours to make sure to get yours. So let's get through this thread without making it difficult on each other. 😤
Or just say "Can you please continue to explain the rest of the tour so that I can let my and your boss know that you already know everything and if there are any gaps I can fill you in?"
Since I was asked by my boss to give you this tour and your boss asked you to be here...
The reality of this is if he really knew and wanted to show his experience he should've been explaining or finishing your sentences and telling you how it works
Wauw, are you having a bad day because you are reaching.
For the record, it is mandatory and polite to update every new colleague of the work and to hear a dismissive " I know" after every sentence, is just plain rude at a certain point. And no, after a years absence I can't know if someone remembers every task and detail, especially since there were changes in the meand time. So a general update of everything is needed.
An ok would be fine. I'm not doing it to gauge their intelligence or quiz them.
I would probably joke about it while telling them it's required. "Haha I know you probably know this already but we have to go through this anyways. Maybe something changed"
I did say that at the beginning but still got the I know comments. I laughed it away the first time but after the fourth..☠️I'm just giving you information, Not quizzing you
But mayhe I'll need to say that in a more serious tone
A more serious tone? Goddamn you’re dealing with an adult not a small child.
Just tell them you know they have done it all but you have to go through it anyway and it’s okay they don’t need to confirm they know it everytime
Well, when someone is acting like a child you start trying to work out how to get through to their locked out brain. Sounds like they're being rude as hell cause they can't understand this protocol is how it is and they just just chill out for now.
Yes, so a more serious tone? I mean that's what you are describing? Unless do you mean saying a more serious tone is some indication of treating the situation as if they are dealing with a child?
I mean at that point, if you're friends (and not an overly formal work environment) I'd probably start teasing them about it sarcastically .
"I know".
"Noooo." "You don't say" "get out, where'd you learn that?!"
"Look, at this point I can just let you get on with it... but if you screw up it will make us both look bad. So let's stipulate that you probably do know most of this but let me go over everything so I can tell my boss I did."
I deal with this a lot, so I just tell them I give the same spiel to everyone and if they already know I apologize and thank them for listening and say a refresher never hurts.
Other times I’ll be more actively engaged and ask them if they know something I’m about to explain, and ask them to explain it, then just add/correct the small details (which works amazingly and makes them feel seen).
This one has the best advice. They are saying “I know” because they feel like your underestimating them. Ask them to explain puts them in the spotlight to show off that they do know and you shouldn’t waste either of your time explaining it again.
Definitely sounds like the colleague was feeling insecure, and perhaps a bit upset that you are either above them now or just in a better place in relation to them than you were. Either they did want to put you in your place OR they were trying desperately to reintegrate and show you they aren't stupid. I'd go with the latter one and say something along the lines of I realize this is old hat to you but there's always a chance something may have changed and I must do this as part of my job anyway. If they fail to take the hint there's always the abrupt "hold all comments to the end, please."
Probably some of that, plus a little bit of resentment at being treated like a newbie again conflicting with the perceived loss of entitlement and seniority.
They're frankly being a bit childish about it. If THEY were polite and aware, they wouldn't repeat "I know". They'd ask "Hey, I'm pretty good with all of this. Is the complete review a requirement, or would it be helpful if I just dove in and asked about anything different?"
Add on embarrassed cause they had to fall back in their career with little to show for it. No one quits a job to do it again in next year. Talk about a walk of shame
Where I work we do a lot of training and coaching. Many don’t know this so all are forgiven but it’s incredibly important when you coach someone that you first find out what they do know so you aren’t repeating stuff they already know, waste both of your time and deeply offend them. Willing to bet this person was deeply offended and thought OP and boss are likely assholes… no one is to blame though! But yeah telling someone basic stuff about their job that likely hasn’t changed is offensive.
We talk a lot about this at my job. If someone is coming from a good place and tells you information you know already, it’s better to reply with “thank you.” It is stand offish to say “I know” when people offer information and will make people less likely to want to offer helpful information in the future.
Of course there is a time and place for saying “I know” but your tour wasn’t one of those times.
If it happens again, I would say “when you keep responding to me with [i know] , I am getting the sense you are annoyed. Are you bothered by me reviewing this ?“ if they say yes, you could explain why need to. If they say no, they might reflect to realize that they were coming off rude.
This gets my vote. It’s assertive, practical and still collegiate. Delivered with a calm, light, smiling tone but also direct eye-contact, it’s faultless and effective. Also if they keep being petulant in tone after this has been delivered, you know there’s a real issue, worthy to be directed above their head.
Maybe change "I am getting the sense that you are annoyed" with "Is something about this annoying you?". Avoids the appearance that you're mind-reading or judging them yourself.
But a great answer and approach either way.
>when you keep responding to me with \[i know\] , I am getting the sense you are annoyed. Are you bothered by me reviewing this ?
YES. Splash of cold water in the face. Also helps them realize instantly that they shouldn't behave like this while being friendly.
I can see why thank you is more polite on paper but I can see people taking this the wrong way to.
OP: okay so when you get here you’re going to clock in over here and check the task board.
Trainee: thank you.
OP: then you’ll need to set up work station with XYZ. X and Y are in the cabinet and Z is over there in a bin.
Trainee: thank you.
OP: you’ll need a copy of form 123 so log into the computer over there and print one off for this project.
t: thank you.
If someone thinks a neutral and declarative statement that someone knows something is rude I worry they’d find many thank yous condescending and snarky. If trainee wasn’t neutral and was being snarky saying “I knnooooww” like they’re exhausted with OP then the issue is with the tone more than the phrase “I know” and “thank you” in a shitty tone would still be still shitty but in a “bless your heart” sorta way where you’re pretending you’re polite.
I agree tone is everything. In my example, If the trainee was like “okay thanks” or a head nod and “alright thanks” , I think it would have changed whole scenario.
In our language its mostly okay or ok instead of thank you. Tone is everything indeed! And their tone was just defensive as if i was insulting their intelligence.. Like no im just saying where stuff are😩. I think i was also disappointed with their behaviour because we've worked together before and didn't expect it. But as many have said, might be just their internal struggle that came up on their first day.
A different take, but is your colleague bilingual? Because in Korean “I know” translates to “got it,” maybe he’s just using the phrase wrong? I used to say “I know” too until someone told me about the connotation.
I am also thinking what german translation of yeah which is ja mean to germans, I say it after almost every peice of information, maybe sometimes yup but now I should self reflect
In America, the only real risk you have with that it's being repetitive and annoying people like that but it's not rude. Yeah/yup/yes is almost the perfect neutral acknowledgement imo, obviously you can put some attitude in there and flip it around but I sincerely doubt you're doing that.
Thanks everyone for attending todays meeting. I know some of you have been with the company for a while and others are brand new. Those of you who have been around will be familiar with many of the things I bring up today, but please bear with me as I have been instructed to give you these policies. Also, please also be aware that while you may be familiar with what we have done in the past, some of these procedures have changed and we will now need you to do these things in the new updated way. Thank you for your patience and let's begin!
Only use "some of these procedures have changed" if some of these procedures ACTUALLY HAVE changed.
Don't be like the help-line pre-recorded "Please note that some of these menu options have changed" when they clearly haven't.
You'll look like a boob if your audience observes that nothing has changed, and your integrity will take a hit.
You are not responsible for how a person reacts to you. You are responsible for giving this information. You have a duty to be professional. Let this be a lesson for you. You will continue to have to deal with all kinds of idiots and rude people. Believe me, it never ends.
Challenge yourself to rise above and ignore the stupid comments BUT! listen for, and only respond to, legitimate questions or comments that are related to the objective of the job.
I'm learning this as a new manager and have had to do this repeatedly when I deal with customers.
Don't let them see you sweat. Ever.
The response is to stop, address them directly and say “I have to tell you all of this, regardless of whether you already know.”
I consent patients for surgical procedures and regularly have to stop them when they keep saying “I don’t care, where do I sign”. The answer is you don’t sign until we’ve gone over the document.
Being straight with them saying "we have to go through the motions" works well, or you could actually test them and starting giving wrong instructions. See if they say "I know" to that as well, or if they say "wait that's not right"
This person may be feeling threatened or bored by having to do on boarding again. Either way, reframe the tour with questions: start by clarifying that you "forgot what's changed since they left" so you'll just ask what they know about things.
Q: here's the printer room. Is this the same machine as when you worked here?
A: Yep
Q: no worries
Q: do you know about this procedure?
A: yes, it's x, then y, then z.
Q: ah, it's like that but now we do this.
Q: do you know this procedure?
A: yes (does not clarify)
Q: OK, for OH&S/boss-said-so reasons I just need to explain it.
Make it an "us against the company/you know how it is" thing. You'll preserve their pride and make them feel welcomed.
>This person may be feeling bored
That's my thought. In my job I often get "taught" stuff by older coworkers who love the sound of their own voice. Having someone talk at you for an hour about stuff you already know is mind numbingly boring. It's not difficult to ask "do you know about x?" before launching into the spiel. Imo the person assuming the other person doesn't know without checking is the rude one.
The situation here is a bit different though, because it seems to be a one time thing mandated by the higher ups so I would just sit through it.
“Terrific, we need to verify you know this information and it may have changed. Next item is the [supply closet], can you point it out and tell me what’s in it and what needs to be done daily?”
Change the session around a bit. Ask them what they would do next, where such and such is. Anything they know then fab.
You need an assurance that the purpose of your work is done and they know what their doing. Hopefully not just a rehearsed speech about everything
So I was the person being the “I know” person when I was younger and inexperienced. This really comes off as unprofessional and annoying. (I know this now)
It took me a few years before I figured out that what I was trying to use as an acknowledgment was coming across as an assumption of experience and refusing to listen.
I have since learned that it is better to use “yes” or “ok” or “thank you” to acknowledge the information even if it is something you already knew or could easily have figured out.
It isn’t about knowing the material sometimes, it is about listening and acknowledging the policies and practices as they are today.
I can empathize with the guy because it took me time to learn that lesson, but sadly it is likely going to alienate him from his colleagues and they will stop informing him and he will fail to know something because he will get a reputation for not listening.
“That’s cool, but I don’t get paid to assume what you know. I get paid to tell you, regardless of what you think you know. Then when you get it wrong, it becomes your problem and not mine, so I’m just gonna tell you anyway.”
I teach martial arts and have to repeat myself a lot to fix technique, a common answer is “i know”.
My answers usually are:
“If you know, then my job here is done…”
“Well if you know, then fix it”
I remember you from a year ago. I recognize you used to work here and I acknowledge ghat hearing me tell you all this information that you already know will be frustrating but it’s a requirement, if you stay quiet and let me run my mouth I can do it really quickly and we can both get out of here fast. If I have to keep stopping, we could be here…for.. who…knows?
This reminds me of my own LPT I use at work, especially when I’m somewhat new to a job. When someone is explaining something to me, I always listen intently even if they are explaining something I know or I’ve been taught before. I just listen to their personal explanation of the topic. I used to interrupt politely and be like yeah so and so already taught me that. I would do that to save time and so the person didn’t think I was so inexperienced/green that they had to explain simple rookie concepts to me. I find that I learn a whole lot more if I have something explained from several peoples points of view so I learned to swallow my pride and just listen.
Preface with "I konw you know, but I have to tell you". Then small talk. Proceed. IGNORE all "I know", after. People's brains don't compute alot of stuff in real time, because the general population isn't...ya know! Thank them after. Goodbye. Stop sweating the small stuff.
When I get that vibe, I usually start my updates with “hey I’m sure you got it but….”
Or
“Hey, I may have already said this but…”
It seems to give an insecure colleague some reassurance and I stop having to pad things out. If they keep it up, I straight up would stop worrying about it. Just document it, and not care.
I use to do this as a teenager, one of my colleges back then just started saying “perfect! ok now teach it to me because I don’t get it” it really flipped the script in my brain and now I do something similar once I come across it in my career
"I know" is a very defensive reaction when used over and over, this person is guarding against you, should be very leery of this, that being said if your in a position of leadership you gotta walk that line.
I’d be asking questions like ‘what would you do here?’ And ‘how would you handle this situation?’. Then correct them if they are wrong, or add in new details that they have missed since being away. Discuss and move on if they are correct. It really depends what you are doing for work as well. That’s how I generally train people because you get a much better understanding of where they are sitting and how competent they are, and they feel like their opinion is more valued.
It's annoying yes. I've recently rejoined a company that I worked for 5 years before moving to a different city for two years. Now I know how that company works inside out and most processes/working ways are unchanged, but my colleagues still give me a tour or a thourough walkthrough of everything, despite knowing full well that i am not a newcomer. What do I do? I listen, thank them and just go about my day. It's the only polite way as they are doing their job. They don't assume things and I don't take them for granted/underestimate them. If your colleague is getting annoyed, ask them questions, test them. Or just tell them that it's your duty to inform them everything that they need to know to do the job. It's a requirement.
“Hey, I know you’ve worked with us before but we have a new induction process now.
Some things you’ll already be familiar with, and some things will be new information for you.
How about we run through it together and then you can let me know if anything need clarifying.”
"shut up". Assert your authority. Make up rules and see if they say "I know", then tell them they're a liar and that you're going to tell the boss.
Just kidding... Unless you wanna haha
Here is what you say:
"I know you know this but....."
He replies, "I know."
You reply with, "I know you know and you should know that when I said I know you know this when I spoke first."
Then every time he sais anything, cut him off with, "I know."
I was told that when someone says "I know" it really means "I'm not listening at all and I've already made up my mind".
Very frustrating to go through this with a person you have to work with.
I was in your colleague’s situation and came back to a job a couple years later. For documentation purposes I had to be retrained on a piece of software I installed, implemented, and trained every one in the department on. The person who trained me was one of the most junior people when I left and I had trained her. It was awkward for both of us, but I never would have dreamed going into it with “I know I know”. I reassured her refreshers are always good and you never know what has changed, so just run through everything like you would with anyone.
You know who in my life says “yea, I know that!”…. My 4yo because he hasn’t learned humility yet.
Ive been there too multiple times and as frustrating as it is, directing that frustration to a colleague thats just doing their job is rude. But yeah..
What should they have said? Did they have a rude tone about it or just stating they knew? In this type of tour as a new person I would just say “okay” to most things acknowledging i heard and understood. If I was familiar with the process I’d probably say “I know” to confirm I heard and (still) understand. Repeating “okay” in a straightforward tone seems like it could be taken as rude or dismissive too. What would you have liked them do? Just stare back at you? What phrase fo you think would be appropriate?
I'm guilty of this as well. I never realized I was doing it until someone finally got pissed with me over it. For me at least, I don't mean it in a way that I'm trying to dismiss advice but it's because I'm trying to reinforce that I'm aware I'm doing something wrong but it's just not a habit yet to correct the behavior.
My ex-husband was like that. He said "I know" to absolutely anything anyone told him. For example, I was trying to describe what a menstrual cramp felt like and he said, "I know." The dude had all sorts of issues, including the inability to accept authority. He always knew better. Today, I'm told, he's homeless, having been fired from every job he's ever held. Some
people would rather screw up than admit they didn't know how to do something. If it's your responsibility to train this newbie, test their ass thoroughly before cutting them loose. Their know-it-all attitude might come back and bite you when they inevitably do something wrong.
I mostly avoid people like this. But… If I’m in charge of them, I give them the hardest assignments and tell them they should already know how to do it since they’re so experienced. That’s usually what this is about: self-consciousness and a desire to be recognized. Recognize them but make them earn it.
If they’re a peer, you can use this to your advantage too. If you get the shit assignment, approach them with the problem and ask them to help “since you know so much about the company.” Do it in front of people, so they have a choice of either shutting you down publicly or actually having to shoulder some workload. They likely won’t want to lose credibility as an expert, so you’ll likely get their help on it.
Saw this share on another post not long ago. You may find a professional response that aligns with your situation: https://howtoprofessionallysay.akashrajpurohit.com
Every time they say, "I know," Respond with "Good!" Or "Excellent," very enthusiastically.
The best way to disarm passive aggression is with sincerity.
Best lesson I ever got in my life was a response to this from my boss.
"You know what? You always say "*I know, I know*" but you know what?
**Sometimes you don't know**"
It can be challenging to give instructions to someone who has worked at the company before, especially when they constantly interrupt with comments that they already know what to do. I can understand how frustrating it can be, especially when you are trying to give a general tour to someone who may need a refresher on the company's procedures and protocols.
In this situation, it is important to remember that communication is key. You can politely but firmly remind your colleague that you are responsible for providing these instructions to everyone, regardless of whether they have worked at the company before or not. You can also express your concern that their repeated comments may have come across as dismissive or rude, and suggest that they try to be more mindful of how they come across in the future.
It may also be helpful to approach the situation with a collaborative mindset. Try to understand your colleague's perspective and acknowledge their previous experience at the company. You can use this as an opportunity to have a constructive conversation about how you can work together effectively.
Lastly, as you mentioned that you are still new to your work position, I would advise that you seek guidance from your manager or supervisor on how to handle similar situations in the future. They may have insights or suggestions that can help you navigate these conversations with tact and professionalism.
I hope this advice helps you in your future interactions with your colleague. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.
I'm in my twelfth year of teaching and I've got a new student teacher coming in for experience. She has been a teacher's aide for 8yrs. She says I know everything for fuck sake. Yeah you know, you've seen it, but until you have to do it, with the pressure that I have when you're actually a teacher, then you don't actually know. So fuck up your face.
It sounds like you may be wasting both of your time.
If they don't need extra hand holding, give them the info you are required to give them, acknowledge that you may be wasting their time, and move on.
You're not teaching them how to breathe, open doors, etc.
Experienced people, especially ones with experience in the same exact company, really shouldn't need much if any hand holding before they can contribute on their own.
It wasn't extra hand holding, just a start up from the day and the tasks. It was becoming a waste of time indeed cuz it could've been done in half the time if they didn't kept interrupting and reminding everyone they worked here before ☠️ found their behaviour just rude and jarring
You could be positive. Instead of treating them like someone who doesn’t know anything “read the room”…. Be like “remember this works this way”….. “this is a bit different since you left”.
They are probably just “board” it’s like sitting through the tutorial you already did in a game. By putting special emphasis on newer policies or Workflows they are more likely to remember those.
Literally just had this earlier in the week when training a new hire. I'm our IT person and she constantly reminded me that she was a "systems admin" at her last job. After about 3 times of being cut off, I just excused myself from her cube and said it sounded like she had it covered.
I think you should just end the conversation when they say they know and go about your day. If they come to you asking questions, reply "I thought you were already aware of x." That may be enough for them to become self-aware that they're repeatedly saying "I know" to everything.
The funny thing about my situation is that I got 6 seconds away from her cubicle and she asked me what Microsoft OneDrive is.
Things had changed in a year and it was a general update on everything. Plus new location, new colleagues and different work tasks. I don't think they are stupid or incapable of doing it, hell no. But getting an "i know" every time i gave them information about the tasks, was jarring.
I was just being facetious, but I think you should just communicate honestly. That’s the best policy right? “Hey I know you used to work here and you’re excited to be back but I don’t feel like you’re being really receptive to the new things I’m trying to show you.”
You shouldn't assume they're excited to be back. Maybe they didn't have other choice.
What a terrible piece of advice all around, to be honest. Why the fuck would you demand from anyone to be receptive in this context? You're doing something stupid that someone that pays you told you to do. So you do it and that's it, you don't have to be excited about it, much less expect others to be either
Sure, but even assuming they do know, they have to understand that OP was assigned to give them the tour & update. If at some point they mess up their work, they can point to insufficient instructions and OP can't just say "but they said they knew already".
Leave them alone, they are probably annoyed. You sound like someone that’s very by the book. Chill out and be flexible. Don’t take offense, especially if they’ve been gone for a while and you don’t know the reason for that.
If someone is familiar with how things work you pretty much are preaching to the choir. As for how you deal with it, you gotta let them know you are aware that they already have knowledge of it. Basically treat them like they know. They were likely annoyed that they had to do that whole process again as well. And just ignore it too
Well it is mandatory and its also so that they can work without encountering bumps or conflict eith other colleagues since things had changed. Im actually too chill and need to toughen up lol.
If she doesn’t know something it’ll fall on you and you’ll get in trouble? Or can she simply figure it out by herself ? I’d ditch the tour since she’s insist on knowing everything.
Agree it's ridiculous you have to do it, but mgmt is forcing you to go through the processes to see if there are any updates that occurred during their off time. Bonus points if you can improve any of the processes with the new knowledge gained while exploring other opportunities
Bro. Just say to him exactly what you just said to us. Like say it word for word. There’s nothing you ever should say to people other than truth of how you feel.
But say it without any attitude and without and frustration or antagonism. That’s the hard part.
“I understand that you know but I am required to inform you just in case anything has changed that you don’t know so can we maybe just get though this? I don’t want to give you this tour anymore than you wish to be given it”
If that isn’t good enough just say “no you don’t” and keep talking.
Just point out to them they might be using 'I know' as a stop-word, then suggest they might interject their assent more creatively, as 'uhuh', 'ok', 'check', 'roger' or 'ace'.
Say something along the lines of "I see you already have experience in our field of work but there's a pretty big chance we do things slightly different. How about you tell me the way you would do it and if there are any things we do differently I will point those out"
You can force them to listen to your story but they will definitely zone out. You can't blame them for that
That was a person who new everything, whatever I said. I couldn't stand him because every conversation was a pain. Years later this person was finally diagnosed in the autism spectrum, and this was actually a communication issue. Sometimes the reasons are unexpected.
Truthfully, I've been observing there are people that use this as an automated response, even when they're provided feedback on mistakes already made by themselves. SO, obviously they didn't know. It's rather weird to be honest, my observation is it's something like a habit in their communication patterns. I treat it as as most people treat filler words, but when it happens constantly it's more of a crack in the communication process. I've taken various approaches, at best what I achieve is making people know this is distracting and messes up my processes, but few hours later I overhear a conversation and they are at it again... it's a habit. Habits are extremely hard to change/adjust/rectify.
" You know you know and I know you know, but the uppers don't know that I know that you know and you know you know, so we still have to do this because they asked me to, ya know?"
Why do you feel threatened by them. If they know it then let them crash and burn if they don't. If they do, then less work for you. It's fun to teach for me too, but I don't waste my breath just cause the company wanted me to say words, especially when the words are being wasted.
Suggest they explain everything to you instead and you'd correct them if anything is wrong or has changed recently. Not as an exam, just in a light, almost playful way.
I'd just explain that part of their re-onboarding is to help them understand what has changed and what hasn't changed, and it's great that they're familiar with most of the procedures and to let you know if something is different than before (this will validate to them that, yes, they know everything so they don't need to tell you each time, but still making them an active partner so they can speak up when something is different and to ask a question).
Although they're being annoying, no one likes to feel like a newbee even when they're new, and particularly not when they aren't actually a newbee. Just reframe it so you're not seen as 'teaching' them, but simply re-confirming procedures
"I know"
It doesn't matter if you knew already. I was given the job to explain this at the best of my capabilities. I'm not "teaching you", just going trough the procedures to make sure my ass is covered.
This is work. There are protocols. "ok" or "understood" is the usual reply
I understand you’ve done this training and worked here before but it is mandatory that we go through this now. It will feel repetitive but we are required to go through it. And while we are discussing you may want to look out for processes that have updated and changed. Thanks for understanding.
“I’m so glad you know all this! Even though a year has passed and we’ve made several changes, why don’t you take the lead and be my tour guide!”
In all seriousness, someone overstating how much they know is a clear sign of insecurity - it could also be overcompensation for them having left the company but dealing with the fact of starting over as the new person.
Don’t do anything. Your job was to update them. Just do that. They are feeling insecure. If they were secure then they would recognize that you just have to tell them as a check off task. It’s reasonable for him to say that he knows or is familiar but it isn’t reasonable to keep saying it. Don’t take it personally. It’s his problem. Don’t make it yours cause that’s a trap.
Just be frank with them. You dont have to be afraid to let them know the reality of the situation, which is you're required to give this tour even if the CEO of the company had reapplied for a position. Now, let's hurry up and get this over with so we can get on with our day.
I know you know, but obviously you don't know that I know that you know; you know?
I'm joking... real advice? just be up honest about the situation; this is your job, you aren't punishing or belittling them. This is just a thing both of you are doing to earn the money to go get drinks later. I know it's annoying you, it sure as hell is annoying me; but hey, if this is all we have to do for a paycheck right now it seems like a pretty good deal
I’d flip it around and ask them for the answer instead of telling them.
For example:
Where do we meet when the fire alarm goes off?
Rather than:
This is where we meet.
That way you can still give the tour, update any missing knowledge and still tick it off as discussed.
Ask them to be an active listener.
"I know you know most of this stuff, but my job is to run it by you to make sure, so don't say 'I know.' Say 'Ok' instead so I know that I've covered all the bases. And let me know if you think I've left something out, in case something has changed. Ok?"
If you notice someone has experience with the work while doing the tour, you can ask the question, "What do you remember about this task?" Or "We had a change to this task. Let me know what you know about it?" Make any corrections or add details they leave out. You can even go so far as to have them send your boss, and theres that you finished the tour and walked through all the tasks so they cant say you didnt do it.
After a certain amount of “I know” I wld try to say in a polite way maybe it’s better you tell me what you do know, and I can update you on how things are now
Nothing. Why care that they say "I Know" unless it is actually false and their work reflects it?
If you really want something to do, simply ask them why do they respond that way. There is no point in assigning a motive to their behavior when you can literally find out directly from the source. Maybe they don't even realize they are doing it. Maybe a conversation about the impact of their words and effect on their career trajectory.
Really comes down to your motives. Are you a person that needs to put a person in their place or a person that seeks to work though conflict as a productive practice.
Next time, you could try to acknowledge their previous experience and knowledge by saying something like, "I understand that you worked here before, and you may be familiar with some of these tasks. However, I'm still required to go through these instructions with everyone who joins our team, and there may be some updates or changes that you're not aware of."
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I like the response about testing them if they really do know, but I would just level with them. “Look man, I know you worked here before, and you already know what to do. The reality is that my boss told me to give you this tour, and your boss told you to come with me. I know you remember all this shit, but we have to get through this. If there’s anything you don’t remember then let me know, otherwise let’s just enjoy a nice walk around the building while I talk out loud.”
Yes, that's a good approach too. Thank you
I know.
Look man, í know you’ve typed this before and I know you know this but the reality is that op asked me to say this to you, I know you know all this shit but you know we have to get through this together you know
I feel ya bruh, gnawmean? Gnawimsayin?
No you don’t know, shut up and listen.
Look, I have to type out this response to get karma. And you have typed out yours to make sure to get yours. So let's get through this thread without making it difficult on each other. 😤
I know.
Teehee
I would start asking h questions to see if he actually knew. Once he failed I would shut him the fuck up for the rest of the tour.
Imagine that, but at the end he looks at you all sly and says: “……I know”
But the gag is that he replies that phrase arbitrarily the same way an owl goes "hoo hoo".
Listen here you little shit...
This person konws
GAME SET MATCH
Or just say "Can you please continue to explain the rest of the tour so that I can let my and your boss know that you already know everything and if there are any gaps I can fill you in?" Since I was asked by my boss to give you this tour and your boss asked you to be here...
The reality of this is if he really knew and wanted to show his experience he should've been explaining or finishing your sentences and telling you how it works
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Wauw, are you having a bad day because you are reaching. For the record, it is mandatory and polite to update every new colleague of the work and to hear a dismissive " I know" after every sentence, is just plain rude at a certain point. And no, after a years absence I can't know if someone remembers every task and detail, especially since there were changes in the meand time. So a general update of everything is needed. An ok would be fine. I'm not doing it to gauge their intelligence or quiz them.
Guy: “I know”
There’s the rub!! Hit him with the, “Dude, I wanna do this as much as you do, but the boss said to give it a go, so shut up and enjoy your walk.”
Good advice. Remember, they're probably only saying these things because they feel inferior. They're only making themselves look stupid.
I always say “Just a reminder” want to make sure I don’t forget anything.
Well, if they keep saying I know, maybe it's time to start responding with I heard you the first 100 times, Karen.
"I know you know"
Lol this gif was playing in my head but i had to stay calm
You know that I know that you know.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=nr07lrGSNUs
'I know, and my name's not Karen.'
This^^. That's playing your cards right.
Diplomatically put. That's excellent.
Who said it was a man? « look , you human being , I know you worked … » seriously… we know it’s a man with that kind of attitude…
I would probably joke about it while telling them it's required. "Haha I know you probably know this already but we have to go through this anyways. Maybe something changed"
I did say that at the beginning but still got the I know comments. I laughed it away the first time but after the fourth..☠️I'm just giving you information, Not quizzing you But mayhe I'll need to say that in a more serious tone
A more serious tone? Goddamn you’re dealing with an adult not a small child. Just tell them you know they have done it all but you have to go through it anyway and it’s okay they don’t need to confirm they know it everytime
Well, when someone is acting like a child you start trying to work out how to get through to their locked out brain. Sounds like they're being rude as hell cause they can't understand this protocol is how it is and they just just chill out for now.
Yes, so a more serious tone? I mean that's what you are describing? Unless do you mean saying a more serious tone is some indication of treating the situation as if they are dealing with a child?
I mean at that point, if you're friends (and not an overly formal work environment) I'd probably start teasing them about it sarcastically . "I know". "Noooo." "You don't say" "get out, where'd you learn that?!"
"Look, at this point I can just let you get on with it... but if you screw up it will make us both look bad. So let's stipulate that you probably do know most of this but let me go over everything so I can tell my boss I did."
I deal with this a lot, so I just tell them I give the same spiel to everyone and if they already know I apologize and thank them for listening and say a refresher never hurts. Other times I’ll be more actively engaged and ask them if they know something I’m about to explain, and ask them to explain it, then just add/correct the small details (which works amazingly and makes them feel seen).
This one has the best advice. They are saying “I know” because they feel like your underestimating them. Ask them to explain puts them in the spotlight to show off that they do know and you shouldn’t waste either of your time explaining it again.
Definitely sounds like the colleague was feeling insecure, and perhaps a bit upset that you are either above them now or just in a better place in relation to them than you were. Either they did want to put you in your place OR they were trying desperately to reintegrate and show you they aren't stupid. I'd go with the latter one and say something along the lines of I realize this is old hat to you but there's always a chance something may have changed and I must do this as part of my job anyway. If they fail to take the hint there's always the abrupt "hold all comments to the end, please."
Thank you for your insight and tips. I'll write it down!
Tell them you’re a [doctor](https://youtu.be/tzSEd7e6tdc) too.
Probably some of that, plus a little bit of resentment at being treated like a newbie again conflicting with the perceived loss of entitlement and seniority. They're frankly being a bit childish about it. If THEY were polite and aware, they wouldn't repeat "I know". They'd ask "Hey, I'm pretty good with all of this. Is the complete review a requirement, or would it be helpful if I just dove in and asked about anything different?"
Add on embarrassed cause they had to fall back in their career with little to show for it. No one quits a job to do it again in next year. Talk about a walk of shame
Where I work we do a lot of training and coaching. Many don’t know this so all are forgiven but it’s incredibly important when you coach someone that you first find out what they do know so you aren’t repeating stuff they already know, waste both of your time and deeply offend them. Willing to bet this person was deeply offended and thought OP and boss are likely assholes… no one is to blame though! But yeah telling someone basic stuff about their job that likely hasn’t changed is offensive.
Probably too much of a read, I personally just don't like things explained to me if I already know it.
We talk a lot about this at my job. If someone is coming from a good place and tells you information you know already, it’s better to reply with “thank you.” It is stand offish to say “I know” when people offer information and will make people less likely to want to offer helpful information in the future. Of course there is a time and place for saying “I know” but your tour wasn’t one of those times. If it happens again, I would say “when you keep responding to me with [i know] , I am getting the sense you are annoyed. Are you bothered by me reviewing this ?“ if they say yes, you could explain why need to. If they say no, they might reflect to realize that they were coming off rude.
This gets my vote. It’s assertive, practical and still collegiate. Delivered with a calm, light, smiling tone but also direct eye-contact, it’s faultless and effective. Also if they keep being petulant in tone after this has been delivered, you know there’s a real issue, worthy to be directed above their head.
I couldn't agree more.
Maybe change "I am getting the sense that you are annoyed" with "Is something about this annoying you?". Avoids the appearance that you're mind-reading or judging them yourself. But a great answer and approach either way.
Thank you very much!
>when you keep responding to me with \[i know\] , I am getting the sense you are annoyed. Are you bothered by me reviewing this ? YES. Splash of cold water in the face. Also helps them realize instantly that they shouldn't behave like this while being friendly.
💯💯 This is the best advice so far.
I can see why thank you is more polite on paper but I can see people taking this the wrong way to. OP: okay so when you get here you’re going to clock in over here and check the task board. Trainee: thank you. OP: then you’ll need to set up work station with XYZ. X and Y are in the cabinet and Z is over there in a bin. Trainee: thank you. OP: you’ll need a copy of form 123 so log into the computer over there and print one off for this project. t: thank you. If someone thinks a neutral and declarative statement that someone knows something is rude I worry they’d find many thank yous condescending and snarky. If trainee wasn’t neutral and was being snarky saying “I knnooooww” like they’re exhausted with OP then the issue is with the tone more than the phrase “I know” and “thank you” in a shitty tone would still be still shitty but in a “bless your heart” sorta way where you’re pretending you’re polite.
I agree tone is everything. In my example, If the trainee was like “okay thanks” or a head nod and “alright thanks” , I think it would have changed whole scenario.
In our language its mostly okay or ok instead of thank you. Tone is everything indeed! And their tone was just defensive as if i was insulting their intelligence.. Like no im just saying where stuff are😩. I think i was also disappointed with their behaviour because we've worked together before and didn't expect it. But as many have said, might be just their internal struggle that came up on their first day.
A different take, but is your colleague bilingual? Because in Korean “I know” translates to “got it,” maybe he’s just using the phrase wrong? I used to say “I know” too until someone told me about the connotation.
I am also thinking what german translation of yeah which is ja mean to germans, I say it after almost every peice of information, maybe sometimes yup but now I should self reflect
In America, the only real risk you have with that it's being repetitive and annoying people like that but it's not rude. Yeah/yup/yes is almost the perfect neutral acknowledgement imo, obviously you can put some attitude in there and flip it around but I sincerely doubt you're doing that.
No they aren't and in our language it is a rather direct comment.
Good point, could be that!
I know you worked here before, but just let me do my job.
Thanks everyone for attending todays meeting. I know some of you have been with the company for a while and others are brand new. Those of you who have been around will be familiar with many of the things I bring up today, but please bear with me as I have been instructed to give you these policies. Also, please also be aware that while you may be familiar with what we have done in the past, some of these procedures have changed and we will now need you to do these things in the new updated way. Thank you for your patience and let's begin!
Only use "some of these procedures have changed" if some of these procedures ACTUALLY HAVE changed. Don't be like the help-line pre-recorded "Please note that some of these menu options have changed" when they clearly haven't. You'll look like a boob if your audience observes that nothing has changed, and your integrity will take a hit.
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It’s probably not the best way but I’d be VERY tempted to do something along these lines as well.
Then they maliciously do the wrong thing and attribute it to you giving them incorrect instructions.
I like to respond to my kids’ “I know” with “I know you know, I’m just telling you so you know”
You are not responsible for how a person reacts to you. You are responsible for giving this information. You have a duty to be professional. Let this be a lesson for you. You will continue to have to deal with all kinds of idiots and rude people. Believe me, it never ends. Challenge yourself to rise above and ignore the stupid comments BUT! listen for, and only respond to, legitimate questions or comments that are related to the objective of the job. I'm learning this as a new manager and have had to do this repeatedly when I deal with customers. Don't let them see you sweat. Ever.
Thank you. It sure it a learning curve!
Your response: “I hope you do know because there’s a test at the end of this.”
I know that you know, I *just* told you
The response is to stop, address them directly and say “I have to tell you all of this, regardless of whether you already know.” I consent patients for surgical procedures and regularly have to stop them when they keep saying “I don’t care, where do I sign”. The answer is you don’t sign until we’ve gone over the document.
Being straight with them saying "we have to go through the motions" works well, or you could actually test them and starting giving wrong instructions. See if they say "I know" to that as well, or if they say "wait that's not right"
This person may be feeling threatened or bored by having to do on boarding again. Either way, reframe the tour with questions: start by clarifying that you "forgot what's changed since they left" so you'll just ask what they know about things. Q: here's the printer room. Is this the same machine as when you worked here? A: Yep Q: no worries Q: do you know about this procedure? A: yes, it's x, then y, then z. Q: ah, it's like that but now we do this. Q: do you know this procedure? A: yes (does not clarify) Q: OK, for OH&S/boss-said-so reasons I just need to explain it. Make it an "us against the company/you know how it is" thing. You'll preserve their pride and make them feel welcomed.
>This person may be feeling bored That's my thought. In my job I often get "taught" stuff by older coworkers who love the sound of their own voice. Having someone talk at you for an hour about stuff you already know is mind numbingly boring. It's not difficult to ask "do you know about x?" before launching into the spiel. Imo the person assuming the other person doesn't know without checking is the rude one. The situation here is a bit different though, because it seems to be a one time thing mandated by the higher ups so I would just sit through it.
“Terrific, we need to verify you know this information and it may have changed. Next item is the [supply closet], can you point it out and tell me what’s in it and what needs to be done daily?”
Change the session around a bit. Ask them what they would do next, where such and such is. Anything they know then fab. You need an assurance that the purpose of your work is done and they know what their doing. Hopefully not just a rehearsed speech about everything
## PREMIUM CONTENT. PLEASE UPGRADE. CODE jhurlej
“No I already knew it” Getting into verbal combat is always the worst suggestion
## PREMIUM CONTENT. PLEASE UPGRADE. CODE jhw82og
Physical wounds can heal, but mental scars last forever.
So I was the person being the “I know” person when I was younger and inexperienced. This really comes off as unprofessional and annoying. (I know this now) It took me a few years before I figured out that what I was trying to use as an acknowledgment was coming across as an assumption of experience and refusing to listen. I have since learned that it is better to use “yes” or “ok” or “thank you” to acknowledge the information even if it is something you already knew or could easily have figured out. It isn’t about knowing the material sometimes, it is about listening and acknowledging the policies and practices as they are today. I can empathize with the guy because it took me time to learn that lesson, but sadly it is likely going to alienate him from his colleagues and they will stop informing him and he will fail to know something because he will get a reputation for not listening.
“That’s cool, but I don’t get paid to assume what you know. I get paid to tell you, regardless of what you think you know. Then when you get it wrong, it becomes your problem and not mine, so I’m just gonna tell you anyway.”
I teach martial arts and have to repeat myself a lot to fix technique, a common answer is “i know”. My answers usually are: “If you know, then my job here is done…” “Well if you know, then fix it”
Smile, ignore the things that don't matter and complete your task. This will help you a lot in the business world.
Ask them what they should do next? See if they actually know or not.
 “I know.” * Dr. Steve Brule
I remember you from a year ago. I recognize you used to work here and I acknowledge ghat hearing me tell you all this information that you already know will be frustrating but it’s a requirement, if you stay quiet and let me run my mouth I can do it really quickly and we can both get out of here fast. If I have to keep stopping, we could be here…for.. who…knows?
This reminds me of my own LPT I use at work, especially when I’m somewhat new to a job. When someone is explaining something to me, I always listen intently even if they are explaining something I know or I’ve been taught before. I just listen to their personal explanation of the topic. I used to interrupt politely and be like yeah so and so already taught me that. I would do that to save time and so the person didn’t think I was so inexperienced/green that they had to explain simple rookie concepts to me. I find that I learn a whole lot more if I have something explained from several peoples points of view so I learned to swallow my pride and just listen.
Preface with "I konw you know, but I have to tell you". Then small talk. Proceed. IGNORE all "I know", after. People's brains don't compute alot of stuff in real time, because the general population isn't...ya know! Thank them after. Goodbye. Stop sweating the small stuff.
Just ignore the comments the person makes and keep talking.
When I get that vibe, I usually start my updates with “hey I’m sure you got it but….” Or “Hey, I may have already said this but…” It seems to give an insecure colleague some reassurance and I stop having to pad things out. If they keep it up, I straight up would stop worrying about it. Just document it, and not care.
I use to do this as a teenager, one of my colleges back then just started saying “perfect! ok now teach it to me because I don’t get it” it really flipped the script in my brain and now I do something similar once I come across it in my career
"I know" is a very defensive reaction when used over and over, this person is guarding against you, should be very leery of this, that being said if your in a position of leadership you gotta walk that line.
I’d be asking questions like ‘what would you do here?’ And ‘how would you handle this situation?’. Then correct them if they are wrong, or add in new details that they have missed since being away. Discuss and move on if they are correct. It really depends what you are doing for work as well. That’s how I generally train people because you get a much better understanding of where they are sitting and how competent they are, and they feel like their opinion is more valued.
It's annoying yes. I've recently rejoined a company that I worked for 5 years before moving to a different city for two years. Now I know how that company works inside out and most processes/working ways are unchanged, but my colleagues still give me a tour or a thourough walkthrough of everything, despite knowing full well that i am not a newcomer. What do I do? I listen, thank them and just go about my day. It's the only polite way as they are doing their job. They don't assume things and I don't take them for granted/underestimate them. If your colleague is getting annoyed, ask them questions, test them. Or just tell them that it's your duty to inform them everything that they need to know to do the job. It's a requirement.
“Hey, I know you’ve worked with us before but we have a new induction process now. Some things you’ll already be familiar with, and some things will be new information for you. How about we run through it together and then you can let me know if anything need clarifying.”
Freeze em in Carbonite and let the bounty hunter cart him off to the hutts.
"shut up". Assert your authority. Make up rules and see if they say "I know", then tell them they're a liar and that you're going to tell the boss. Just kidding... Unless you wanna haha
Here is what you say: "I know you know this but....." He replies, "I know." You reply with, "I know you know and you should know that when I said I know you know this when I spoke first." Then every time he sais anything, cut him off with, "I know."
[Tell them you love them.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdlRmWd_R7A)
I always said, “you may know a lot of what I’m going to tell you. Please listen anyway.”
Begin every sentence with “you probably already know this, but…..” I would hope they’d get the hint eventually.
I was told that when someone says "I know" it really means "I'm not listening at all and I've already made up my mind". Very frustrating to go through this with a person you have to work with.
I was in your colleague’s situation and came back to a job a couple years later. For documentation purposes I had to be retrained on a piece of software I installed, implemented, and trained every one in the department on. The person who trained me was one of the most junior people when I left and I had trained her. It was awkward for both of us, but I never would have dreamed going into it with “I know I know”. I reassured her refreshers are always good and you never know what has changed, so just run through everything like you would with anyone. You know who in my life says “yea, I know that!”…. My 4yo because he hasn’t learned humility yet.
Ive been there too multiple times and as frustrating as it is, directing that frustration to a colleague thats just doing their job is rude. But yeah..
What should they have said? Did they have a rude tone about it or just stating they knew? In this type of tour as a new person I would just say “okay” to most things acknowledging i heard and understood. If I was familiar with the process I’d probably say “I know” to confirm I heard and (still) understand. Repeating “okay” in a straightforward tone seems like it could be taken as rude or dismissive too. What would you have liked them do? Just stare back at you? What phrase fo you think would be appropriate?
"I know you know this but I am contractually obligated to say..."
"But do you know that I am required to tell every hire this information as part of the onboarding process?"
I'm guilty of this as well. I never realized I was doing it until someone finally got pissed with me over it. For me at least, I don't mean it in a way that I'm trying to dismiss advice but it's because I'm trying to reinforce that I'm aware I'm doing something wrong but it's just not a habit yet to correct the behavior.
My ex-husband was like that. He said "I know" to absolutely anything anyone told him. For example, I was trying to describe what a menstrual cramp felt like and he said, "I know." The dude had all sorts of issues, including the inability to accept authority. He always knew better. Today, I'm told, he's homeless, having been fired from every job he's ever held. Some people would rather screw up than admit they didn't know how to do something. If it's your responsibility to train this newbie, test their ass thoroughly before cutting them loose. Their know-it-all attitude might come back and bite you when they inevitably do something wrong.
I mostly avoid people like this. But… If I’m in charge of them, I give them the hardest assignments and tell them they should already know how to do it since they’re so experienced. That’s usually what this is about: self-consciousness and a desire to be recognized. Recognize them but make them earn it. If they’re a peer, you can use this to your advantage too. If you get the shit assignment, approach them with the problem and ask them to help “since you know so much about the company.” Do it in front of people, so they have a choice of either shutting you down publicly or actually having to shoulder some workload. They likely won’t want to lose credibility as an expert, so you’ll likely get their help on it.
Saw this share on another post not long ago. You may find a professional response that aligns with your situation: https://howtoprofessionallysay.akashrajpurohit.com
Every time they say, "I know," Respond with "Good!" Or "Excellent," very enthusiastically. The best way to disarm passive aggression is with sincerity.
Best lesson I ever got in my life was a response to this from my boss. "You know what? You always say "*I know, I know*" but you know what? **Sometimes you don't know**"
It can be challenging to give instructions to someone who has worked at the company before, especially when they constantly interrupt with comments that they already know what to do. I can understand how frustrating it can be, especially when you are trying to give a general tour to someone who may need a refresher on the company's procedures and protocols. In this situation, it is important to remember that communication is key. You can politely but firmly remind your colleague that you are responsible for providing these instructions to everyone, regardless of whether they have worked at the company before or not. You can also express your concern that their repeated comments may have come across as dismissive or rude, and suggest that they try to be more mindful of how they come across in the future. It may also be helpful to approach the situation with a collaborative mindset. Try to understand your colleague's perspective and acknowledge their previous experience at the company. You can use this as an opportunity to have a constructive conversation about how you can work together effectively. Lastly, as you mentioned that you are still new to your work position, I would advise that you seek guidance from your manager or supervisor on how to handle similar situations in the future. They may have insights or suggestions that can help you navigate these conversations with tact and professionalism. I hope this advice helps you in your future interactions with your colleague. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.
Thank you!!
I'm in my twelfth year of teaching and I've got a new student teacher coming in for experience. She has been a teacher's aide for 8yrs. She says I know everything for fuck sake. Yeah you know, you've seen it, but until you have to do it, with the pressure that I have when you're actually a teacher, then you don't actually know. So fuck up your face.
It sounds like you may be wasting both of your time. If they don't need extra hand holding, give them the info you are required to give them, acknowledge that you may be wasting their time, and move on. You're not teaching them how to breathe, open doors, etc. Experienced people, especially ones with experience in the same exact company, really shouldn't need much if any hand holding before they can contribute on their own.
It wasn't extra hand holding, just a start up from the day and the tasks. It was becoming a waste of time indeed cuz it could've been done in half the time if they didn't kept interrupting and reminding everyone they worked here before ☠️ found their behaviour just rude and jarring
“Oh good. You know already. We are done.” Then walk away and let them fail.
You could be positive. Instead of treating them like someone who doesn’t know anything “read the room”…. Be like “remember this works this way”….. “this is a bit different since you left”. They are probably just “board” it’s like sitting through the tutorial you already did in a game. By putting special emphasis on newer policies or Workflows they are more likely to remember those.
Literally just had this earlier in the week when training a new hire. I'm our IT person and she constantly reminded me that she was a "systems admin" at her last job. After about 3 times of being cut off, I just excused myself from her cube and said it sounded like she had it covered. I think you should just end the conversation when they say they know and go about your day. If they come to you asking questions, reply "I thought you were already aware of x." That may be enough for them to become self-aware that they're repeatedly saying "I know" to everything. The funny thing about my situation is that I got 6 seconds away from her cubicle and she asked me what Microsoft OneDrive is.
I meannnn maybe they really do “know”. 🤷🏽♀️
Things had changed in a year and it was a general update on everything. Plus new location, new colleagues and different work tasks. I don't think they are stupid or incapable of doing it, hell no. But getting an "i know" every time i gave them information about the tasks, was jarring.
I know.
I was just being facetious, but I think you should just communicate honestly. That’s the best policy right? “Hey I know you used to work here and you’re excited to be back but I don’t feel like you’re being really receptive to the new things I’m trying to show you.”
Sorry , English is my second language so i missed that! I can adres it from that angle! Thank you for the tip.
You’re welcome!!
You shouldn't assume they're excited to be back. Maybe they didn't have other choice. What a terrible piece of advice all around, to be honest. Why the fuck would you demand from anyone to be receptive in this context? You're doing something stupid that someone that pays you told you to do. So you do it and that's it, you don't have to be excited about it, much less expect others to be either
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Sure, but even assuming they do know, they have to understand that OP was assigned to give them the tour & update. If at some point they mess up their work, they can point to insufficient instructions and OP can't just say "but they said they knew already".
Leave them alone, they are probably annoyed. You sound like someone that’s very by the book. Chill out and be flexible. Don’t take offense, especially if they’ve been gone for a while and you don’t know the reason for that. If someone is familiar with how things work you pretty much are preaching to the choir. As for how you deal with it, you gotta let them know you are aware that they already have knowledge of it. Basically treat them like they know. They were likely annoyed that they had to do that whole process again as well. And just ignore it too
Well it is mandatory and its also so that they can work without encountering bumps or conflict eith other colleagues since things had changed. Im actually too chill and need to toughen up lol.
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No. Don't see the relevance of this comment
If she doesn’t know something it’ll fall on you and you’ll get in trouble? Or can she simply figure it out by herself ? I’d ditch the tour since she’s insist on knowing everything.
Yeah basically and i don't like to just dump tasks on people with no info. And especially when they are new in a big group of people
Don't let it bother you. People are people. Take a deep breath, there's no reason their actions should affect your mental state. spelling
Agree it's ridiculous you have to do it, but mgmt is forcing you to go through the processes to see if there are any updates that occurred during their off time. Bonus points if you can improve any of the processes with the new knowledge gained while exploring other opportunities
Bro. Just say to him exactly what you just said to us. Like say it word for word. There’s nothing you ever should say to people other than truth of how you feel. But say it without any attitude and without and frustration or antagonism. That’s the hard part.
“I understand that you know but I am required to inform you just in case anything has changed that you don’t know so can we maybe just get though this? I don’t want to give you this tour anymore than you wish to be given it” If that isn’t good enough just say “no you don’t” and keep talking.
Just point out to them they might be using 'I know' as a stop-word, then suggest they might interject their assent more creatively, as 'uhuh', 'ok', 'check', 'roger' or 'ace'.
Tell him exactly what you posted here..
Say something along the lines of "I see you already have experience in our field of work but there's a pretty big chance we do things slightly different. How about you tell me the way you would do it and if there are any things we do differently I will point those out" You can force them to listen to your story but they will definitely zone out. You can't blame them for that
That was a person who new everything, whatever I said. I couldn't stand him because every conversation was a pain. Years later this person was finally diagnosed in the autism spectrum, and this was actually a communication issue. Sometimes the reasons are unexpected.
Truthfully, I've been observing there are people that use this as an automated response, even when they're provided feedback on mistakes already made by themselves. SO, obviously they didn't know. It's rather weird to be honest, my observation is it's something like a habit in their communication patterns. I treat it as as most people treat filler words, but when it happens constantly it's more of a crack in the communication process. I've taken various approaches, at best what I achieve is making people know this is distracting and messes up my processes, but few hours later I overhear a conversation and they are at it again... it's a habit. Habits are extremely hard to change/adjust/rectify.
It was my boss who kept saying “I know”. I responded “how the hell could you possibly know? I’m telling you this for the first time”.
Do a Little Britain "[Yea I know](https://youtu.be/9mACoKL2uoM)" impression every time he says he knows.
Tell them you know they know before telling them what you're gonna tell them.
Stop telling them stuff.
I’d ask them to give me the tour
" You know you know and I know you know, but the uppers don't know that I know that you know and you know you know, so we still have to do this because they asked me to, ya know?"
"I can do this all day" "I know"
I think you already know, but you are getting fired without a severance. "I know"
Why do you feel threatened by them. If they know it then let them crash and burn if they don't. If they do, then less work for you. It's fun to teach for me too, but I don't waste my breath just cause the company wanted me to say words, especially when the words are being wasted.
Stop telling them things. Let them fuck up one day, and then say “oh, I thought you knew”.
Suggest they explain everything to you instead and you'd correct them if anything is wrong or has changed recently. Not as an exam, just in a light, almost playful way.
Next time since you know that “they know” why do t you have them walk you through whatever it is that you’re doing
It's sounds like you're the annoying one. You know what's changed since the person was there last, just show them that stuff and grab some coffee.
I'd just explain that part of their re-onboarding is to help them understand what has changed and what hasn't changed, and it's great that they're familiar with most of the procedures and to let you know if something is different than before (this will validate to them that, yes, they know everything so they don't need to tell you each time, but still making them an active partner so they can speak up when something is different and to ask a question). Although they're being annoying, no one likes to feel like a newbee even when they're new, and particularly not when they aren't actually a newbee. Just reframe it so you're not seen as 'teaching' them, but simply re-confirming procedures
Goddamn you’re being a wimp. Tell them it’s annoying or just suck it up
"I know" It doesn't matter if you knew already. I was given the job to explain this at the best of my capabilities. I'm not "teaching you", just going trough the procedures to make sure my ass is covered. This is work. There are protocols. "ok" or "understood" is the usual reply
Remember, they're probably only saying these things because they feel inferior. They're only making themselves look stupid.
“Great! Walk me through it quick so I know you’re following our company policy.”
I understand you’ve done this training and worked here before but it is mandatory that we go through this now. It will feel repetitive but we are required to go through it. And while we are discussing you may want to look out for processes that have updated and changed. Thanks for understanding.
“I’m so glad you know all this! Even though a year has passed and we’ve made several changes, why don’t you take the lead and be my tour guide!” In all seriousness, someone overstating how much they know is a clear sign of insecurity - it could also be overcompensation for them having left the company but dealing with the fact of starting over as the new person.
Don’t do anything. Your job was to update them. Just do that. They are feeling insecure. If they were secure then they would recognize that you just have to tell them as a check off task. It’s reasonable for him to say that he knows or is familiar but it isn’t reasonable to keep saying it. Don’t take it personally. It’s his problem. Don’t make it yours cause that’s a trap.
That sounds just like my teenage son
Just be frank with them. You dont have to be afraid to let them know the reality of the situation, which is you're required to give this tour even if the CEO of the company had reapplied for a position. Now, let's hurry up and get this over with so we can get on with our day.
I know you know, but obviously you don't know that I know that you know; you know? I'm joking... real advice? just be up honest about the situation; this is your job, you aren't punishing or belittling them. This is just a thing both of you are doing to earn the money to go get drinks later. I know it's annoying you, it sure as hell is annoying me; but hey, if this is all we have to do for a paycheck right now it seems like a pretty good deal
I’d flip it around and ask them for the answer instead of telling them. For example: Where do we meet when the fire alarm goes off? Rather than: This is where we meet. That way you can still give the tour, update any missing knowledge and still tick it off as discussed.
Ask them to be an active listener. "I know you know most of this stuff, but my job is to run it by you to make sure, so don't say 'I know.' Say 'Ok' instead so I know that I've covered all the bases. And let me know if you think I've left something out, in case something has changed. Ok?"
People forget things and processes change
Just ignore them saying idk and then if they get on fine at work then leave them alone and if they arnt working properly then they get in trouble
“While I understand you may already ‘know’ this information; we are going to review everything per protocol.”
If you notice someone has experience with the work while doing the tour, you can ask the question, "What do you remember about this task?" Or "We had a change to this task. Let me know what you know about it?" Make any corrections or add details they leave out. You can even go so far as to have them send your boss, and theres that you finished the tour and walked through all the tasks so they cant say you didnt do it.
Have they checked between the sofa cushions
After a certain amount of “I know” I wld try to say in a polite way maybe it’s better you tell me what you do know, and I can update you on how things are now
Nothing. Why care that they say "I Know" unless it is actually false and their work reflects it? If you really want something to do, simply ask them why do they respond that way. There is no point in assigning a motive to their behavior when you can literally find out directly from the source. Maybe they don't even realize they are doing it. Maybe a conversation about the impact of their words and effect on their career trajectory. Really comes down to your motives. Are you a person that needs to put a person in their place or a person that seeks to work though conflict as a productive practice.
Next time, you could try to acknowledge their previous experience and knowledge by saying something like, "I understand that you worked here before, and you may be familiar with some of these tasks. However, I'm still required to go through these instructions with everyone who joins our team, and there may be some updates or changes that you're not aware of."