Beware of Negative Colleagues

Have you ever worked with anyone who was hard to be around for more than 5 minutes?  Did you find yourself taking more trips to the bathroom just to escape the chronic whiner or nay sayer?  Sometimes dealing with difficult co-workers can be more trying than than the work itself.  All of us have our share of stress at work but it's easier to cope with if you are of like minds and truly enjoy the people you're around 8-10 hours a day.So, how do you work with difficult people without jumping out the window?  Some of these pointers might help:

• Suggest a resolution to a chronic complainer - they don't want answers or advice, they just want to complain and annoy everyone around them (I call it dumping).  Eventually, they'll go away and move on to the next victim.
• Be polite and acknowledge them out of courtesy but don't get sucked into their manipulation or negativity.  Let them know you're very busy and can't talk.
• Don't commiserate even if you feel the same way.  Misery loves company and they'll see you as an ally
• Try and resolve any issues on your own before going to your manager.  You don't want to be perceived as a rat fink.  If the situation doesn't improve or gets worse, don't  try and be the hero.  Go to your boss.  Be rational and leave the drama at the water cooler.  Most managers have enough on their plate but will appreciate that you want to work things out

There is no ideal situation working around a difficult employee(s) but there are some solutions to make your work environment more enjoyable.  SEE FUTURE BLOGS ON HOW TO DEAL WITH A DIFFICULT BOSS (that should be fun).  :-)

"Good Night, And Good Luck"

Laura Rivchun