June 02, 2022

How to deal with difficult coworkers? (5 Brilliant Tips)


There are all sorts of difficult coworkers to deal with: the know-it-all, the slacker, the drama queen.
 
Some are always trying to take credit for your work, and others are always negative.
 
 But what can you do when you're stuck with one? How to deal with these types of difficult coworkers?
 
Dealing with them can be challenging. I know. You can't change all of the problematic coworkers. 
 
I have shared some excellent tips in this article. Only this? No. You will also know about types of difficult coworkers.
 
Let's read the rest of the part.
 
 
Table of contents
 
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Types of difficult coworkers

Before going in-depth on how to deal with a bad coworker, it's important to know a little about the types of difficult coworkers. It may help you deal with the situation indirectly.
 
There are a few different types of difficult coworkers you may encounter in your career.
  •  The first is the know-it-all. This person always has to be right and is always quick to offer their opinion, whether or not it is wanted, and he constantly tries correct others. It is really frustrating to work with them because they often contribute nothing to the conversation and just make things more complicated.  
  • The second type of difficult coworker is the slacker type. This person never does their work and always seems to be looking for an easy way out. No doubt, it isn't easy to work with this type of person.
 
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  • The third type of difficult coworker is the complainer. This type of person always has something negative to say and never seems happy. They can really bring the mood down in the office.
  •  The fourth type of difficult coworker is the control freak. This type of person likes to be in charge and micromanages everything.  
  • Another common type is jealous coworkers. You have said you got a promotion. Congrats, you have got a jealous person. This type of bad coworker always with others success, and they truly believe you don't deserve that. So sad. 
  • You will always get at least one or two gossip-type colleagues in the workplace. This type of personality always lives with the latest office scandal, whether true or not. For example, they are busy with others' eating habits, who has gone out with whom, etc. 
  • Aggressive coworkers: There are three types of aggressive coworkers: intimidators, bullies, and jerks. Intimidators are the most dangerous and should be dealt with immediately. Bullies tend to back off when confronted, while jerks may or may not change their behavior. 
There are some more signs of a toxic coworker like disrespectful coworkers, complaining coworkers, etc.
 
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How to deal with difficult (bad/toxic) coworkers?

One day I thought, why do so many people ask me how to deal with a difficult (bad/toxic) coworker?
 
Then I found the answer. Actually, a difficult (problematic) coworker can be a major source of stress in the workplace. 
 
Anyway, please read the tips below for the solutions. 
 

Set boundaries

No one says that working with difficult people would be easy. In fact, it can be downright challenging at times. 
 
But sometimes we don't have a choice. Maybe you need the job, or you're just not the aggressive type. 
 
Either way, there are ways to set boundaries without creating animosity and keep the peace in the office. 
 
At first, you have to understand why your coworker is difficult. Maybe they are always late, never do their share of the work, or constantly make negative comments. 
 
Once you know the cause of the problem, you can start to put boundaries in place. 
 
Let your coworkers know what you will and will not tolerate. 
 
If they cross a boundary, let them know calmly and professionally. If they continue to bother you, it's time to set some limits. Try distancing yourself from them or even avoiding them altogether. 
 
 
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Stay positive

It's essential to remember that the situation is not always personal. Co-workers may act difficult (bad) due to their stress or personal problems. It's important to be understanding and try not to take their behavior personally.
 
Try to maintain a positive attitude yourself. This will help you set the tone for the rest of the office and may even influence your difficult co-worker. Remember, a positive attitude is infectious.
 
 Here are a few guidelines for staying positive:
  • Avoid arguing or getting defensive.
  • Focus on your own work and don't get wrapped up in theirs.
  • Take a break if you start to feel overwhelmed or stressed.
  • Stay positive, even when things are tough.
 

Learn about the difficult coworkers' viewpoints

It's hard to get along with people different from us, especially if they're challenging coworkers. 
 
But did you know that understanding their perspective can make it easier to get along with them? 
 
When we take the time to learn about someone else's perspective, it deepens our understanding of them, and this insight could help us comprehend their viewpoint.
 
When you understand what's motivating your challenging coworker, getting along with them becomes easier. Maybe they're feeling undervalued and trying to take control in other areas of their lives. Or perhaps they're just having a terrible day.
 
 

Speak to your boss

If you are having trouble with a co-worker, it is best to try and address the issue head-on. Talk to the person and explain that their behavior makes it difficult for you to do your job. 
 
If they do not change their behavior and negatively impact your work, you may need to speak to your supervisor or human resources department regarding the issue.
 

At work, maintain a neutral attitude

Try to stay neutral when coworkers are discussing a difficult colleague. It can be tempting to offer your opinion, but it's best to avoid taking sides. You don't want to worsen the situation or create tension with your colleagues. If someone asks about your opinion, try to be as diplomatic as possible.
 
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Wrap up

When it comes to difficult coworkers, we all know one or two. The person who always has something negative to say, the one who is never happy with anything, and the coworker who just loves to complain. 
 
While it's impossible to get along with everyone, there are ways to deal with difficult coworkers that can make life at work a little more bearable. So it's important to know how to deal with a difficult coworker. I think from this writing; you have learned that art. What do you think? 
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