I have dealt with it in the past by using their egos against them to force them to be accountable for their actions to the point where they back themselves into a corner which is usually when the lies and deceit start becoming very noticeable which gives me all the reasons I need to remove them.<p>I've never met someone that was an elitist and not full of crap.<p>The most 'elite' people I've ever had the pleasure to know were intact very humble about it so whenever I come across someone who acts elite but is not at all humble about it they usually don't last too long because I see this as an attitude problem that can and should only be solved by the individual.
Fight elitism by getting rid of the elitists. A successful startup is not fueled by egos, but by hard work, dedication, and cooperation. It's perfectly normal to feel good about yourself if you've done (and continue to do) those things, but those who do not tend to become elitist.