How To Get Along With Difficult Coworkers At Work

Have you ever been in a situation where you just didn't get along with one of your co-workers? It's a common problem for many of us. It is always this one person who we just find it hard to connect with and worse, sometimes they can be downright mean.

It’s never easy working with difficult co-workers as this type of behaviour can really affect your morale and productivity at work.

If you are also struggling with something similar, here are 13 tips that can help you get along with difficult co-workers:

1. Understand their motivations:

Try to understand what prompts the behaviour of a difficult co-worker. Do they feel threatened by your success, or do they have a different agenda? If possible, try to identify the source of their behaviour and come up with solutions to help overcome it.

Try talking to your co-worker and discussing the issue in a non-confrontational way. This can be a great way to understand their motivations and build an understanding between you both.

2. Don’t take it personally:

Remember that difficult behaviour is rarely about you, so don’t take it personally. Your co-worker probably has a lot of other things going on in their life, which could be causing them to behave the way they do. Try to remain objective and separate yourself from the situation.

3. Respect your differences:

It’s important to recognize that everyone is different and we all have our own unique perspectives and opinions. This can be challenging when working with someone difficult, but it’s important to remember that your co-worker may have a different perspective than you.

Instead of reacting negatively, try to respect their opinion while also offering yours. You don’t have to agree on everything, but being respectful and open-minded can go a long way in getting along with someone difficult.

4. Pick your battles smartly:

When it comes to dealing with a difficult co-worker, it’s important to pick your battles. There will be times when you may feel like you have to stand up for yourself and confront the person, but there are also times when it’s best to let certain issues go.

It can be hard to know when is the right time to stand up for yourself, but if you trust your instincts and pick your battles wisely it can help avoid unnecessary conflict.

5. Set boundaries:

Setting boundaries with a difficult co-worker is important as it helps define what is acceptable and unacceptable behaviour. It also gives them an idea of how to interact with you in the future.

Make sure you communicate your boundaries clearly, as well as the consequences if they are not respected. This will help create a safe and respectful work environment for everyone involved.

6. Keep a Professional Attitude:

It is important to always maintain professionalism in the workplace no matter how difficult the situation may be. Avoid gossiping or making negative comments about the co-worker, as this can cause further animosity between you both. Additionally, keep any disagreements civil, and don’t let your emotions get in the way.

7. Try to stay Calm:

When dealing with a difficult co-worker, it is important to stay calm and collected so that you can take control of the situation. If you become angry or emotional, then it can lead to further arguments and worsen an already tense atmosphere.

On the contrary, if you remain calm and composed, then it can help de-escalate the situation and make it easier to find a solution.

8. Focus on the Issue:

When talking to your co-workers, it is important to focus on the issue at hand rather than bringing up any past issues or disagreements. This helps create an open environment where both of you can discuss the issue and come to a mutually beneficial solution.

9. Avoid Negative Labels in the Workplace:

It is important to avoid using negative labels or phrases that could further antagonise others. This includes calling them names or accusing them of being unreasonable or irrational.

Instead, try and focus on the problem and how it can be solved. This will help your co-worker to feel respected instead of feeling attacked or belittled.

10. Seek Help When Necessary:

If you find yourself in a situation where you are unable to get through to your co-worker or defuse the situation, then seeking outside help may be necessary. Talk to your manager or a trusted colleague for advice on how best to handle the situation.

11. Consider taking a break:

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or frustrated when dealing with a difficult co-worker, it’s important to take a break and give yourself time to cool off. Taking a few minutes away from the situation can help clear your head and allow you to look at the problem more objectively.

12. Always Keep a Perspective:

It’s important to keep perspective and remember that not every disagreement needs to be escalated into a full-blown conflict.

By keeping an open mind, being respectful of others, and maintaining professionalism you can often diffuse difficult situations before they become an issue. It also helps to remember that you don’t have to be friends with your co-worker but it is important to keep a professional relationship with them.

13. Consider the Source:

Finally, it’s important to consider the source of any criticism. Is it coming from a trusted and respected colleague or someone who has an agenda? By considering the source you can decide whether or not it is worth engaging in a conflict with them.

Final Remarks

When dealing with a difficult co-worker, it is important to remain professional and focus on the issue at hand. Taking time to assess the situation, setting boundaries, and staying calm are all important strategies for handling these interactions. Additionally, never forget that you don’t have to engage in every disagreement and can always look for an outside source for help if needed. With these strategies, you can create a respectful and productive work environment for everyone.