1. DEALING WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE Election Director’s Conference December 12, 2011 Kathy Holland, Director Alamance County Board of Elections

2. Who are these difficult people?

3. Staff Members

4. Board Members

5. Voters

6. Candidates

7. Electioneers

8. Elected Officials

9. Media

10. Others MunicipalitiesMunicipalities County GovernmentCounty Government State GovernmentState Government Federal GovernmentFederal Government

11. Irate Phone Calls

12. No matter how good it would feel – you can’t do this…

13. But if I can’t retaliate what other options do I have?

14. Documentation! Document Everything - All telephone calls, emails, in person visits, any correspondence involving the person. These documentations are public records so be careful to only document the facts - no editorials! Keep in mind many people tape two way conversations. Permission from the person they are speaking with is not required. Anything you say over the telephone may be recorded.

15. Evaluate and ask yourself: ““Am I perpetuating this difficulty?” Is my opinion of the person or the situation hindering me from a fair solution or compromise? Am I unwilling to see another point of view. Have I done everything possible to keep the situation from escalating to the next level?

16. Seek Assistance… County Board Members County Attorney The State Board of Elections

17. “Southernisms” for Elections… Staff /Board Members…“A house divided against itself cannot stand.” Voters…“A little knowledge is a dangerous thing.” Candidates/ Electioneers… “Forewarned is forearmed.” Elected Officials…“For whom the bell tolls.” Media… “The pen is mightier than the sword.” Other Agencies… “Know which way the wind blows.” Irate Phone Calls… “No rest for the weary and the wicked don’t need any.”

18. “Southernisms” Rules to follow when encountering difficult people in general.. If you can’t say something nice don’t say anything at all. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar. Remember the Golden Rule!

19. Fortunately most people we encounter are NOT difficult people! But with some time and patience we can make the difficult ones “happy as clams! “

20. If all else fails remember this quote from a very wise woman… If all else fails remember this quote from a very wise woman… aka Johnnie McLean This too shall pass!