How to Deal With Difficult People at Work

There are all different types of people, varying from the easy-going to the difficult. In every company there are usually several difficult people. Some of these individuals gossip about everyone in the workplace, usually not in glowing terms. Others are just plain rude and obnoxious. Still others criticize anything that they did not play a part in creating. These employees can create an uncomfortable if not hostile work environment. Depending on your personality and your level of self-esteem, you may have no problem in dealing with these employees. Those who are generally obnoxious and affect more than one person are easier to deal with than those who are attacking you personally.

To begin dealing with a difficult co-worker, you should first closely examine yourself. Perhaps their personality causes you to overreact and become over critical. You might have a problem with everyone you meet who exhibits the same traits. You must determine that the person’s actions are the problem, not their personality.

You may be suffering from anger, pain and humiliation because of this person and may not be thinking clearly concerning them. You may want to discuss the issue with a friend or trusted colleague. They are better able to give an unbiased opinion of the situation. They may also offer some alternate solutions in dealing with the problem.

You may want to approach the difficult person directly. Be as pleasant as possible. Use “I” as much as possible in the conversation as you explain to them how their actions are affecting you. This method is non-aggressive and keeps them from becoming confrontational. They may not even be aware that their actions are a problem. You may be able to reach an agreement that is positive and supportive to you both.

You should be aware, however, that some difficult people know that they are difficult and don’t care. They may forget the conversation as soon as you walk away. You may want to have a second conversation. If the behavior has not changed after the initial exchange, this may not have any effect either. You may need to decide if you want to continue to deal with this person by yourself or if you need to involve others, such as management.

If you decide against a second discussion, you may try to use humor in dealing with the difficult person in public. Some people are not naturally funny, but if you are, this can be a good tool when dealing difficult people.

If none of these solutions seem to ease the situation, you may want to avoid working with the person as much as you possibly can. In extreme cases, you may want to consider a transfer out of the department to eliminate the problem all together. This may not seem fair considering that you are not the one who created the problem. You may need to decide if you are willing to stay and deal with the difficulties or transfer and perhaps be happier and more successful. As you are going to spend most of your time in this environment, you need to do everything that you can to make it a rewarding and satisfying experience.

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