CNBC August 31, 2026 • 13:34

When someone talks down to you, use Dolly Parton's simple trick to 'maintain your dignity and disarm' them, says expert - CNBC

By Dorie Clark

When someone talks down to you, use Dolly Parton's simple trick to 'maintain your dignity and disarm' them, says expert - CNBC

Communication expert Dorie Clark calls it the "label upgrade" strategy. "It's a powerful move," she says. "Own the truth," then redefine their label. Here's how.

When someone patronizes you, it's easy to feel slighted. Maybe they assumed you didn't know what you were doing because you're new to an organization, or you're younger. Maybe they figured you wouldn… [+4463 chars]

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