[header] How to deal with nasty people [title] Try to empathize with someone who treats you poorly. [step] Though this may be difficult to do, showing empathy towards the person can help to turn a potential conflict into a more friendly discussion. Rather than react with anger or annoyance, you can try asking the person questions that are empathetic. 
Showing concern toward the person could be disarming and make them feel they actually have someone they can talk to, rather than simply be mean to. [substeps] For example, you may be around a person who asks hurtful, pointed questions at work.