5 Clever Comebacks for Frenemies at Work

The idea of a frenemy may seem like a new concept, but the word, which blends friend and enemy together, first appeared in print as early as 1953. The article entitled, "Howz about calling the Russians our Frienemies" was posted in the Nevada State Journal and illustrated the point that enemies often disguise themselves as friends.

What was once political jargon is now a common reference in the workplace, and it's no wonder: The amount of time people spend at work today has left many friendless outside the office. The modern, informal corporate environment actually promotes professional and personal crossover. But sadly, not everybody plays nice in the sandbox.

For those coworkers who pal around and then undermine your authority, question your competency and pick boardroom fights, be prepared with these clever comebacks: 

To combat accusations: 

• I don't know if that's an accurate characterization. If it turns out that I've made an error in judgment, then I will take action.
• Right now we need to focus on this issue. There will be plenty of time to assign blame once we've implemented a solution.

To sidestep an insult masquerading as a compliment: 

• Thank you. I work hard, and truly appreciate that you've noticed.
• Thanks. I often wonder if I'm doing all that I can do. Your feedback is encouraging.

To squelch rumor spreaders: 

• I need your help to clear up a potential misunderstanding. It seems conversations are occurring about me that aren't factual. What can you tell me about your participation?

How to Protect Your Image with Magical Phrases.

The best leaders exude confidence and always seem to have a good
answer for even the most complex questions. What's their secret? In
some cases, it's the teleprompter, but for those leaders who never
seem to lose their cool in face-to-face interactions, the answer is
just as simple: They have learned how to buy themselves time to gain
composure before articulating their answer. It's an image-saving
strategy that's known by many as the most magical ingredient of
communication—the transitional phrase.

It's short. It's pithy. But more importantly, it's diplomatic. And it
helps you move away from a seemingly negative question or insinuation
to a decisively positive message. You can use transitional phrases
when talking to disgruntled employees, the media, customers and even
family members. The trick is to have a handful of phrases in your hip
pocket, ready to go. Practice delivering them when times are good so
they'll roll right off your tongue when times are bad.

The following examples will help you gain control over any
conversation or email thread—and keep it:

•       That's an interesting perspective.
•       Thanks for surfacing this important issue.
•       Let me give that some thought.
•       I wouldn't say that.
•       Not exactly, let me explain.

You should also be prepared to kick a question back to your accuser,
something like "Industry experts usually have a lot to say about this
one, whom do you align your viewpoints with?" This will give you extra
time to collect your thoughts as your opponent racks her brain trying
to recall the name of any noteworthy expert.

How to Ask for a Promotion (in the midst of a mean-girl-sabotage)