How to Deal with Difficult Coworkers?

The problem of a difficult coworker can arise when you are trying to get used to your new job and colleagues, as well as in a workplace where you have been working for a long time.

Dealing with difficult people at work is a matter that concerns many people, as there is usually one or more such profiles in almost every workplace. One of your coworkers is involved, and you want to maintain good relations with them, as you spend a certain amount of time with them closely during the day. Bad relationships disrupt peace, but unfortunately, they do not allow for a good relationship to be established. Such a personality may not necessarily behave negatively or repulsively towards you; sometimes it is just their character, and they behave that way towards everyone. However, there may also be a situation where they exhibit bad attitudes specifically and only towards you. Dealing with the second situation is more challenging; it can demoralize a person and decrease work efficiency. It is not easy to deal with someone who looks at you negatively, does not greet you, interrupts you while you are talking to your other friends, and tries to compete with you by blocking your way.

Difficult coworkers can sometimes even lead to a person losing their position. If you have such a coworker, your job is tough, but do not lose hope; there are some things you can do. The difficult coworker profiles in the workplace exhibit different behaviors. Some patiently wait for the right moment and cunningly attack, speaking as if they are joking, but their intentions are bad, and they try to belittle you with a mocking tone. Keeping your distance does not help, as the more you withdraw, the more they come at you. You should respond to such a person with a question, for example, you can say, 'You must be joking, am I wrong?' In other words, do not retreat; gently indicate that you are aware of what they are doing and put them in a position where they have to admit they are not serious. It is necessary to stand firm against aggressors but avoid fighting or engaging in polemics. This profile is prepared for the other person to flee or attack in anger; they expect this, and when you do, they may react aggressively and embarrass you. Do not do any of these; remain calm and secure, and respond to the aggressive attitude directed at you in a direct, calm, and self-assured manner.

Working with sullen coworkers who ignore you or give short answers to questions is also not easy.

It is challenging to communicate with these types of people who speak very little, are not open to dialogue, and have difficulty taking the first step in establishing relationships. When trying to communicate with them, ask questions that require long answers, not questions where 'Yes' or 'No' would suffice. Give the shy person time to respond, listen to them carefully, and try to extend the conversation by being engaged. There is also a profile of a difficult coworker who does not trust themselves or others and always expects hostility or negativity from the world and people. Such individuals are often dissatisfied and complain. In this case, you should approach your counterpart with a positive attitude rather than a negative one and encourage them to be optimistic as well. These people tend to see the negative side of events, so try to show them the good sides as well. On the other hand, you should also review your own behaviors and question whether you are exaggerating the events.

The problem may not actually stem from the other person; you may be behaving too sensitive and touchy. It is not easy to look at things that annoy you with neutrality; talk to a trusted friend about what is happening, as their impartial comments can help you think more clearly. It can also be beneficial to talk to the person you are having problems with in a proper manner, without blaming them, and giving them a chance to say something. After doing this, carefully observe whether there has been a positive change, and if your good-natured, conciliatory behaviors do not work, minimize your relationship with that person to the lowest possible level.