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Dealing with Difficult Coworkers: From Sales and Marketing to Finance and Planning
by Mackenzie Dawson Parks
m.dawson.parks@hqpublications.com
Business Programs Columnist
Although it might seem like the corporate grass grows greener in another company, difficult colleagues are, unfortunately, the standard - not the exception. They come in many packages; they may be rude, loud, manipulative, or absurdly competitive.
But it's your choice whether you gnash your teeth over their behavior - or whether you want to deal with them effectively. If you're in the latter category, here's how:
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- Limit Your Interaction. Sadly, this is not always a possibility. But if the annoying coworker in your office is someone you do not have to actually spend time working with, then avoid them whenever possible.
There's no point in having your time wasted by someone you don't enjoy, so if you see them headed your way, look busy!
- Express Yourself. If a coworker constantly says unpleasant or negative things around you, call them on it in a non-confrontational way. People tend to react better to criticism when it's delivered in a way that expresses how their actions affect someone else.
For instance, try something like, "I really find that it's easier to stay focused at work when I'm positive. I noticed that a lot of what you've been saying seems to be really negative, and while I'm sorry you're feeling that way, I'm really busy and just don't have time to talk about it right now."
- Confront the Martyr. The office martyr is a well-known character in most offices; this is the person that can't seem to resist mentioning how late he stayed last night, or commenting on how much work she has. Call their bluff.
Most of the time, the Martyr is passive-aggressive, so they'll never openly complain that someone else isn't working as much as they are. If you decide to take this on, however, you'll need to be a bit aggressive.
If they make a crack about taking a half day, or going home 'early,' ask them, 'What's your point?' Often, when a passive-aggressive comment is brought into the light, the speaker will back down.
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If You Feel You Need a Break from Cowork Confrontation...
If you're fed up with your office life, and you're not sure you can handle office politics, even after following the advice above, consider taking time off for business school. Working on your MBA for a little over a year will give you some time out of the cubicle and can be a refreshing break from personality clashes at your workplace.
Once finished with your business school mba, you'll be well on your way to a management position. Once in management, you won't have to deal with coworkers who cause conflict; you can kindly remind them that their employment depends on you!
About the Author
Mackenzie Dawson Parks is a freelance writer and editor. She has written for the New York Post, Psychology Today, and Parenting, in addition to other publications. Her previous experience includes three years of public relations and marketing. Mackenzie has a B.A. in English and French literature, and an M.A. in Journalism.
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