Misanthropes Don’t Like Me

Over the years that I have been a painting contractor, it has become very clear to me that misanthropes do not like me. It doesn’t matter if the misanthrope is a customer, a vendor, or a fellow contractor.

At first I took their hostility personally. I wondered what I had done to deserve such treatment. But I eventually realized that their scorn was not directed at me specifically. After all, they are misanthropes.

The best way to deal with misanthropes is to not deal with them. They should be shunned like the plague. Not only will this prevent us from being exposed to their venom, it will also impose an appropriate punishment upon their tortured soul—misanthropes do not like being judged too harshly.

Identifying misanthropes can be a tricky proposition. While we should not rush to judgment, neither should be indefinitely suspend judgment. This is where good communications can be very helpful in identifying potential problem customers.

Unfortunately we cannot always identify such people immediately. Often they hide their self-induced misery under a façade of sweetness. Sometimes they come across as perfectly normal—until it is too late.

A well written proposal—i.e., a proposal that clearly defines the scope of work, customer responsibilities, expectations, etc.—can provide protection. A well written proposal can greatly limit the misanthrope’s irrationality.

When the above precautions fail, and you find yourself dealing with a misanthrope, don’t take it personally. They don’t like me either.

© BEP Enterprises Incorporated 2008