When you work with other people there may be occasion to clash with some of the people you work with. This can make for a stressful work environment. Whenever there are many people in one area there is bound to be some personality conflicts. How you deal with these irritations can mean the difference between having a miserable day and being able to work in a pleasant manner. So, how do you cope with difficult coworkers? Here are a few tips:
- Recognize when you see a personality that can be difficult to work with. Know it all types, those who always have to get the last word, people who do not listen, slackers, back stabbers and gossips are among the types who can be damaging. Recognizing who those people are in the work place is the first step in being able to deal with them.
- Tread lightly when dealing with a boss who you do not like. They have the power to fire you so you need to be careful how you approach them.
- Do not make snap decisions that you may regret later. While you may be tempted to say or do something rash, take a step back first and assess how the situation is best handled before acting. If you take a deep breath and calm down first, you will be more capable of handling the situation diplomatically.
- Do not be afraid to address the situation. If a coworker is unaware they are doing something irritating or harmful tactfully discussing it with them can be appreciated. However, if the actions are malicious simply letting them know you are aware of it may minimize their attack on you.
- If there is nothing you can do about the situation you will need to learn to live with it. If you continually whine about it to others, though, your reputation may be marred and it is you who looks bad to others.
- Do not retaliate in kind. While it may be tempting to give them a taste of their own medicine you do not want to sink to their level. Instead, deal with the situation tactfully, professionally and calmly.
- When discussing issues with a coworker do not make a scene in the office. Instead, request a private meeting to avoid any potential embarrassment that may escalate the problem.
- Stay positive when you confront the other person and do not put them on the defensive. Suggest you discuss your issues to come to some common ground so you can both be happier. Ask if there is anything you can do to make a more productive work environment.
- Learn to listen to their opinions even if you disagree with them. You may learn something.
- If after trying to deal with the situation yourself you still can not come to terms with the difficult coworker, discuss the issue with your supervisor tactfully. You do not want to come across as a complainer but ask for their advice on how to handle the issue. You can outline the ways you have attempted to deal with the situation so your boss knows you tried other avenues before escalating it.
References:
http://www.allbusiness.com/human-resources/workforce-management-conflict-resolution/11133-1.html
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