DiscoverThe Career Refresh with Jill Griffin: Career Reinvention, Leadership Coaching, and Professional BrandThe Center of Attention Trap: Understanding the Connector-Competitor in Your Workplace
The Center of Attention Trap: Understanding the Connector-Competitor in Your Workplace

The Center of Attention Trap: Understanding the Connector-Competitor in Your Workplace

Update: 2025-10-28
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Description

Ever worked with someone who dominates every conversation, name-drops constantly, and gets visibly upset when they're left out of the loop? They're not just seeking attention, they're seeking safety. In this episode, we unpack the psychology behind the "Connector-Competitor" workplace archetype and explore why their behavior matters more than you think, for you, your team, and even for them.

In this episode, you'll learn:

  • Why attention-seeking behavior is actually rooted in insecurity and how recognizing this shifts your entire approach to working with (or being) this person
  • Five practical strategies to set boundaries and protect your energy without becoming "the bad guy" or escalating workplace tension
  • How to tell if YOU might be the Connector-Competitor plus one simple question that can transform how you show up in conversations and build genuine connection

Whether you're navigating this dynamic with a colleague or recognizing these patterns in yourself, this episode offers compassionate insight and actionable tools for healthier workplace relationships.

Support the show

Jill Griffin, host of The Career Refresh, delivers expert guidance on workplace challenges and career transitions. Jill leverages her experience working for the world's top brands like Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Hilton Hotels, and Martha Stewart to address leadership, burnout, team dynamics, and the 4Ps (perfectionism, people-pleasing, procrastination, and personalities).

Visit JillGriffinCoaching.com for more details on:

  • Book a 1:1 Career Strategy and Executive Coaching HERE
  • Build a Leadership Identity That Earns Trust and Delivers Results.
  • Gallup CliftonStrengths Corporate Workshops to build a strengths-based culture
  • Team Dynamics training to increase retention, communication, goal setting, and effective decision-making
  • Keynote Speaking
  • Grab a personal Resume Refresh with Jill Griffin HERE

Follow @JillGriffinOffical on Instagram for daily inspiration
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The Center of Attention Trap: Understanding the Connector-Competitor in Your Workplace

The Center of Attention Trap: Understanding the Connector-Competitor in Your Workplace

Jill Griffin