That One Co-Worker

Let’s face it. We have all had that one co-worker that drives you crazy. Perhaps this person is always doing their work at the last minute, or they just need that one more piece of information before making a decision, taking that one project way too long to finish. Maybe they are always trying to change the plan. Just one person in your whole office can leave you reeling in frustration at the end of each work day. The problem here is that your frustration is only affecting one person negatively… you.

One prevailing factor in workplace aggravation is that one co-worker. Most people can relate to having that one person in their office that irks them to no end. But I challenge you to think about it differently. How can you use their talents to your advantage?

Let’s dive into how you can overcome your pre-conceived notion towards that person, and learn to appreciate them:

Be The Bigger Person

If you have an issue with the way that someone works, be the first one to learn how to work well with them. Don’t expect everyone to already know the best approach to working with you. If you like scheduling a certain way, let the people on your team know. If you prefer not to be cc’d in on unnecessary emails, be blunt about it.

Bring Conflict Into The Light

In a previous blog we talked all about conflict in the workplace, and the same lessons apply here. Mostly, the lesson of boldly confronting conflict. The more you sweep your feelings under the rug, the more you’re going to boil over with frustration. If you have serious issues with someone, talk about it respectfully. And don’t be scared to have a mediator there, having an unbiased third party can help guide conversation to be productive instead of destructive.

Respect The Different

Different can be good. Office atmospheres are at their healthiest when diversity is present. Diversity creates balance. Those that are different from you can balance out your talents, as long as you allow them to. People offer an array of different outlooks, experiences, creative solutions and well balanced teamwork. Instead of becoming provoked when someone works or thinks differently than you, take the time to hear them. Great leaders are backed up by great teams that they respect and allow to have a say. Great leaders learn to respect the people around them no matter their differences.

Teamwork is extremely powerful only when it is healthy. I believe that one of the most efficient ways to learn about the power of differences is through taking the Kolbe A™ Index Test with your team. The results of this test will teach you not only about your natural instincts in the workplace, but that of those around you. I’ve seen, first hand, how the results of this test can bring a team together and move careers forward. But don’t take my word for it, check out some testimonials here! Let our team help your team become the best it can be!

-Erin Werde