Most of us have had to deal with a co-worker who monopolizes conversations, speaks condescendingly, doesn’t listen to feedback, or steals credit. But there are ways to manage know-it-alls, so their antics are less disruptive.

Here are some tactics to try:

1. Appreciate what they have to offer. You may have to dig to see it, but there might be some real knowledge or capability behind the exaggerations. Know-it-alls are often insecure and are looking for validation. If you express approval of their skills and thank them for their ideas, they might ease up on the “look-what-I-know” routine.
2. Prevent interruptions. Most know-it-alls annoy others with constant interruptions. So try this: Begin a presentation by saying roughly how much time you need to make your points and ask that others hold questions and comments until you’re finished. Or if the discussion is informal, say something like, “Interruptions break my concentration, so I’d appreciate you letting me finish my thoughts before jumping in.” If the know-it-all still interrupts, don’t raise your voice, but say firmly, “I’m going to finish my point, then I’d love to hear what you have to say.” You can also enlist other co-workers as allies, as it’s often easier for them to confront the rudeness; for instance: “I don’t think Madison was finished with her point.”
3. Share space, make space. If you are leading a meeting, start by presenting the idea of “share space, make space.” Ask those who tend to hold the floor to step back and make room for others to contribute. Ask those who tend to stay quiet during meetings to challenge themselves to express their opinions. The result is comments in the meeting tend to be more equitably distributed.
4. Ask for facts. You may frequently find yourself questioning the truth of the know-it-all’s statements. It’s okay to respectfully ask for facts: “I’m not sure we’re working from the same information. Let’s back up and look at the data before we proceed.” Even if domineering colleagues don’t respond well to these inquiries, they may think twice next time they blurt out unsubstantiated claims.
5. Model humility. Many show-offs act the way they do because their behavior has been rewarded in the past. Provide a different model, one of humility and open-mindedness. Be willing to respond to “I don’t know” to questions. Present the pros and cons of your ideas and ask others to do the same. When know-it-alls see that there are no consequences for expressing uncertainty, they might be more willing to do the same.

For more advice, read “There’s a Know-It-All at Every Job—Here’s How to Deal.”