In every workplace, there is that certain
someone whom others flock to because they are so likeable. There
are also individuals who are callous or caustic - or both.
Tackle tough colleagues by being likeable, with these
tips:
Being friendly does not mean you are pals with
everyone.
It does mean that you are approachable, even to nasty
individuals. Also, pay attention to your body language - watch that
you are not always crossing your arms around the wet blankets. And
focus on the tough colleague when he is speaking to you; make him
feel like the most important person at that time.
Figure out what drives a difficult co-worker. Try to
connect with him in that space.
Also, pass on helpful information about the company's
goals (except for confidential matters, of course).
By taking the dissenting individual into your
confidence, you may wear down his hostility and win him over.
Hone your listening skills because others want to know
they are being heard. This act helps you to become more
empathetic.
Also, show interest in your colleague's needs and
wishes. Be sensitive when he is overwhelmed or overworked,
assisting in any way you can.
Lend an ear if the colleague is suffering from a
personal loss. When you are empathetic, others - including the
disagreeable person - perceive you as a team player and someone who
cares about them.
If all that civility does not smoothen the path, there
are practical ways to keep your cool.
Realise you cannot change your co-worker.
Accept your differences and focus instead on the job.
Where your duties overlap, resolve to keep interactions
professional.
Before each work day, anticipate the bumps ahead and
think of ways to minimise the friction.
Discuss an issue with your co-worker. Invite him to
lunch and let him know, tactfully, what is bothering you.
Be prepared to receive the same feedback. Maybe you
have said or done something to ruffle his feathers. If so, be
prepared to make amends and start afresh.
E-mail is often the fastest and simplest way to
communicate with colleagues.
When working with a difficult co-worker, do not be
afraid to take the conversation offline via a phone call or
face-to- face chat.
This way, you will avoid misunderstanding the tone and
meaning.
It is not possible to avoid a nasty co-worker
altogether. If he remains antagonistic despite all your efforts,
minimise your interactions.
Consider that the root cause of that person's behaviour
has nothing to do with you.
Personalities clash and work styles differ. It is not
possible to see eye to eye with everyone in the office.
But even thorny situations can be dealt with
effectively if you keep your head, maintain your poise and develop
another perspective - and perhaps, even a sense of humour.
This article was contributed by Right
Management (www.rightmanagement.sg), the global career experts
within United States-listed HR consulting firm,
ManpowerGroup.