Anyone who has worked for any period of time has encountered a difficult co-worker. Just like all other aspects of our life, it’s impossible to get along with everyone, but effective use of conflict resolution and showing respect for everyone you work with is imperative. It’s important to be cautious when dealing with a co-worker that you just can’t stand. Automation Personnel Services, one of the largest staffing firms in the U.S., has tips for employees who can’t stand working with a difficult co-worker.
Avoid Physical Altercations at All Costs
This goes without saying for most workers, but it is most important that you avoid physical altercations at all costs. Even verbal arguments and shouting matches are frowned upon, especially in the presence of other workers.
Instead, try to talk to them nicely. This might be easier said than done, especially if your co-worker doesn’t want to listen, but at least you put in the effort to respond in a respectful manner.
Focus on Your Job and Your Responsibilities
If you’re unable to be professional with one or more of your co-workers, the next best thing you can do is to just ignore them. This is best achieved by focusing on the job that you were hired for, and doing your daily tasks as expected.
However, some co-workers simply won’t let you be at peace. Even if you stick to yourself and mind your own business, there are some who insist on invading your personal space with every opportunity. In this case, it might be time to talk to your manager.
Consult with Managers and Supervisors
Personal situations with co-workers are best resolved by the two parties themselves, but this doesn’t always work. Bringing the problem to your managers or supervisors should only be considered after trying to talk to the offending co-worker on a one-on-one basis.
When talking to your managers, make sure to remain professional at all times. Slowly and calmly describe the situation and present any evidence you may have and explain efforts you have made to resolve this on your own first. You’d be surprised at how effective this is. In many cases, this is all you’ll have to do to take care of the problem for good. Requesting accountability from your supervisor maybe be all it takes to resolve the issues.
Ask to be Relocated to a Different Department or Shift
If things don’t change, especially after talking to a manager, you might consider moving to another department, office or shift assignment. This may or may not be a realistic option, depending on your situation as well as the current status of your employer, but you might be left with little choice in the matter.
Either way, communication is key especially if you are on a temporary assignment. Automation Personnel Services, Inc. encourages our temporary employees to communicate with a talent coordinator and let us be an advocate for you. We can try to find another department or role that matches your skills. If this isn’t an option, you might have to learn a new trade or supplement your current knowledge with additional training. Although it might take some time, the added effort is almost always worth it in the end.
Overcoming Personal Problems in the Workplace
Regardless of the nature of the problem at hand, it’s critical that you overcome personal issues in the workplace. Werther that is improving your conflict resolution skills or adjusting your tone in which you respond to others, keep in mind that every situation allows us to learn from the situation and improve ourselves. Not only is this important to resolve stressful work situations for your current health and well-being, but it could help you keep your job.
