How to Work with a Negative Coworker

At work, it is critical to remain as professional and enthusiastic as possible when handling projects and tasks. This can be difficult, particularly if you must deal with co-workers who have poor attitudes.

Some places have employees who spread negativity and a bad attitude everywhere they go. As someone who wants to remain engaged and productive, it is critical for you to figure out how to handle this pessimism so you can maintain a strong professional reputation. If you effectively deal with negative coworkers, you can also help others feel more positive and useful.

Because you must work to get along with them, you ought to handle negative coworkers professionally and directly. Below are a handful of suggestions about how to take care of a negative coworker situation.

Hear Their Concerns

When a co-worker keeps speaking badly about someone else or the company, you ought to take a moment to hear their concerns. They may be repeating negative sentiments out of a sense of frustration because they don’t feel heard. Making an effort to hear and understand what they are experiencing may help them feel better.

Simply put, hearing someone else’s concerns and saying a few sympathetic words can help alleviate their overall pessimism.

Help Them Address Legitimate Concerns

When a co-worker expresses legitimate frustrations, you can always suggest resources and qualified professionals to assist them. Based on the specifics, you can suggest they speak with another co-worker, their supervisor, or human resources.

Maintain Boundaries

When a coworker persistently displays a bad attitude, you may have to set limits to make certain you remain effective, focused, and engaged. Professionally but clearly explain you want to focus mainly on work matters. This helps establish a boundary and lays out your intention to work mostly when interacting with them, underlining your shared desire to do a good job.

Compromise Where Possible

When you and your negative worker must work together, attempt to compromise with them where possible to stay productive. If they are unsatisfied with their work, offer to help in ways that don’t undercut your productivity. Attempt to stay positive while collaborating and keep the focus on working together as a unit. This focus can make it easier to work together, boosting your team-building and problem-solving skills.

Talk to HR

If your co-worker continues displaying a bad attitude, you may have to talk with human resources personnel or your supervisor. They may be capable of resolving the situation for your co-worker or moving you to a position from the negative worker.

Before taking this step, it’s best to confront your co-worker and let them know you’re finding it difficult to work with them.

We Can Help You Escape a Toxic Co-Worker Situation

At Career Concepts, we help skilled professionals with all kinds of career situations, including leaving a toxic workplace environment. Please contact us today to find out how we can help you address your current challenge.