9 Tips for Dealing With Difficult Coworkers

A 2022 Myers-Briggs global research report revealed that 36% of workers experience workplace conflict often, very often, or all the time.

If you’re in the workforce, you don’t need an official report to tell you this fact. We’ve all dealt with conflict in the workplace. And most of the time, the conflict arises from interactions with coworkers who, as the saying goes, drive you up the wall!

On the one hand, it’s not a big deal. Sometimes, different personalities rub us the wrong way. Other times, it’s a much bigger problem when “annoying” coworkers become major distractions and inhibit you from doing your job well.

Learning to deal with difficult coworkers is an invaluable experience since conflict resolution is an important life skill! So, whether you’re dealing with the lazy coworker, the arrogant coworker, the emotionally immature coworker, the spotlight hog, or the non-stop talker, here are nine tips to help you cope with difficult coworkers.

Self-Reflect

Identify why this coworker drives you bonkers and which of his behaviors are “triggers.” You can then remove yourself from a situation before getting too irritated. Also, consider how your behavior affects your coworker’s actions. Perhaps you are unwittingly contributing to the cycle of frustration.

Limit Your Elective Time Together.

It may be best to limit your time with your coworker for the sake of both productivity and your mental energy. Set healthy boundaries for how much extra time you will spend with him. Just be mindful of his feelings: setting boundaries is not an excuse for rudeness.

Try to Understand.

Everyone has a story. You never know what’s happening behind the scenes in your coworker’s life. Try to understand his perspective and have compassion. Additionally, take time to understand his (and your own) personality. It may give you insight into better interaction strategies.

Remain Professional.

Stay professional in speech and conduct. Don’t stoop to workplace politics or pettiness. Be very aware of your vocal tone and body language when communicating. Don’t adopt hostility or be passive-aggressive. Instead, be professional and above reproach when communicating with any of your coworkers.

Stay Focused.

Stay focused on your work. Don’t divert your energy to emotional or mental frustration. It takes discipline to control internal frustration, but it’s necessary if you want to remain productive. On a practical level, there may be times when you must graciously communicate to your coworker that you have work on your desk and must remain focused.

Avoid Gossiping.

When you’re frustrated, it’s tempting to commiserate with your colleagues. But gossip is toxic and only worsens things, adding to insecurities and breaking trust. Even if you are mutually frustrated, there’s no room for gossip in a healthy work environment.

Focus on Healthy Relationships.

Sometimes, work friends can become life-long personal friends! Instead of letting your frustrating coworkers drain your energy, focus on the relationships that matter most to you.

Confront the Situation.

Be direct and honest if you must confront your coworker regarding his behavior. Focus on how you feel rather than on his actions. For example, instead of saying, “You talk too much about your toxic relationship with your mom, and it’s annoying,” say, “I don’t know how to carry everything you’ve shared about your relationship with your mom and struggle to stay focused on work. I would prefer not to discuss it with you.”

Talk to Your Supervisor.

If things are getting out of hand, talk to your supervisor and ask for help—especially if your coworker’s behavior inhibits your productivity.

Are you looking for new ways to grow and ready to take the next step in your career? Career Concepts has been helping candidates grow and take that next step for over 50 years! Contact us today, and let’s get started!