When you work with a coworker who is a real pain in the neck, there are a number of ways to deal with them. One of the most effective ways is to avoid gossip and punches under the belt. You should always demonstrate class and integrity, as not all coworkers are easy to deal with. But don't give up. Here are some helpful tips for dealing with difficult coworkers.
Avoiding conflict: The most common way to avoid conflict is to avoid confrontation. Keeping a journal is a good idea if you want to document everything that happened, so you can look back and remember what happened. If the difficult coworker is your superior, it's best to escalate the conflict to them. While this may seem like the last option, it can help you if you have a clear record of who was at fault.
Humor: Sometimes, dealing with a difficult coworker involves using humor. If you're the kind of person who can't help but laugh at yourself, try to incorporate humor in your interactions. If you're not comfortable talking to your coworker, consult your boss or manager. You can also mention the issue as a productivity issue or a progress on a project. These approaches can go a long way in making your interactions with difficult coworkers easier.
Avoiding difficult coworkers should be the first step. If possible, find a trusted coworker who can act as a buffer between you and them. When you're alone, they might not be as difficult as they appear to be. So it's important to find someone else to talk to when the difficult coworker is around. This way, you can avoid getting sucked into their nastiness.
Treating difficult coworkers with dignity can go a long way in improving your career. When a difficult coworker is misbehaving, they may simply need to be let go. But the sooner you address this problem, the better. A difficult person can make your job miserable and cause a negative affect on your self-esteem. So you'd better be proactive and plan your career ahead of time to avoid these types of coworkers.
It can be tempting to let a difficult coworker have it when you're in a bad mood. However, this strategy rarely works. In such a situation, take a step back and think about what is bothering you. Remember, the difficult person may just be you, so you need to remember that you are not the problem. Keep a digital record of exchanges and try to resolve the situation.
Avoid yelling. Although it's never desirable to work with a difficult coworker, it can be a necessary evil to get through your workday. However, you shouldn't give up your job because the difficult coworker will eventually replace you. So, take the time to learn to deal with different personalities. You'll be glad you did! If you're a hard worker, don't give up. The toughest coworkers will never be in your team for long!