It’s a situation that we’re all faced with at some point in the challenging, strenuous and consistently inconsistent journey commonly referred to as a career. It can be tricky to get used to the complexities of a 9-5 working day that is constantly evolving, however the addition of working with difficult colleagues who contribute to the slowing down of time may be a driving force to utilise those sick leave hours! We therefore present 5 tips on dealing with these colleagues to reduce/alleviate any work related stresses you’re experiencing!Identify what the issue is
In a world that operates on an on-the-go and fast paced basis, it’s easy to blow an issue out of proportion- especially when that particular issue has consumed your thoughts. Try to identify what the issue actually is. Most of the time, it’s purely the thought of that problem that is daunting as opposed to the issue actually bothering you.
With that in mind, is the reason you feel uncomfortable around a particular colleague simply the result of a personality clash? This is quite common in the workforce; some people prefer to keep to themselves whereas others work best in a group. Therefore for example; the reason for their silence or isolation isn’t directed at you, it’s simply their way of functioning at work and most likely can’t be changed.
‘Keep your friends close and your enemies closer’
This subtitle is self-explanatory. Machiavelli said it, Sun Tzu uttered similar words, Al Pacino even reiterated this saying and we’ll say it again. In terms of enemy, we don’t only refer to these people whom you don’t get along with; it actually refers to anyone who you’re in competition with or who may try to take credit for your work. Keeping them ‘close’ (don’t get too close) may become advantageous to you in terms of understanding why they’re behaving the way that they do, or why they feel as though they’re above you. Just make sure not to obsess with the issue, clashes will always occur but you can manage them strategically to achieve higher satisfaction at work.
Never say anything bad about anyone… At work
We live in a world where anything and everything said can be used against you. Don’t speak ill of a colleague to another colleague, never create any written material regarding the company or its employees (this is a legal issue, we’re not making this one up!), and please please please if you feel the need to vent to anyone, discuss your issues with a family member, friend or health professional (there’s a highly unlikely chance your colleagues will hear of your struggles from them).
In saying that, if any bullying is occurring in person, try to communicate more through email. It’s always better to have documentation or physical proof if the matter reaches the HR department (this is an extreme precaution!)
If all else fails - talk to your boss!
There are just some things you will not be able to change with the resources and decisions you are in control of. If the proximity or setup is what is making the issue with your difficult colleague worse, ask if you can be moved or partnered with someone else. Be sure to mention how you feel this will encourage better performance and results as well as a better team harmony overall. As long as you touch on your employer’s concerns for performance and making sure the team ‘gets along’, they have a responsibility to listen to you.
Move on
If these colleagues are beginning to bother you to the point where it’s affecting your work, then it might be time for change. Separate yourself completely or as much as possible from them and simply focus on your work. Work independently if need may be, limit conversation to greetings and purely work related topics and migrate over to another group of colleagues with whom you’re more comfortable/compatible with. Be the bigger person and end up happier for it.
If negativity is affecting your personal life or keeping you up at night, then you should definitely consider making a change within your current business or explore other avenues.
Good luck!
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