Today we have another great career related guest post from GreekForMe.com! Want to write for GMW? Email Amanda at amanda.abella [at] gmail.com
Take it from us – owning GreekForMe.com and being able to connect Greek members with the sorority apparel and fraternity apparel perfect for them, including AKA Paraphernalia and Delta Sigma Phi Merchandise, is our dream job, but before that, even we have had our share of difficult co-workers. Learn from our own tried and true experiences!
The Job Files: What To Do When A Co-Worker Is Dragging You Down
It’s a beautiful thing when you and your co-workers can get along and all truly be part of a positive team. Yet, let’s face it – it’s the real world, and not every person on your team is going to have a smile on their face or abide by the office policy of not surfing online while at work. It’s great to be part of a wonderful team here at GreekForMe.com and being immersed in the fun world of Greek Merchandise, but even some of us can get a “case of the Monday’s” from time to time! Here are some tips for dealing with those grouchy co-workers or peers who aren’t contributing to the team as much as others, and ensuring they aren’t dragging you down, too!
Stay Calm
There are people who thrive on causing drama and wanting to get a rise out of you. If you’re dealing with one of these types, the best thing to do is to stay outwardly calm. Sure, you may be saying some harsh words in your mind, but do you best to remain calm and unaffected. Seeing that you are in control and centered allows you to champion the situation by not giving the person the attention they’re so desperately seeking.
Get To Know Them
Are you encountering a person who always seems just a little too crisp via email? Their actual personality may be open and friendly, but it comes across quite differently online. Do your best to communicate with them in person, ask them about their day, and try to see what kind of outside interests they have. They may be suffering from quite a bit of stress, and breaking down that electronic barrier helps both you and them to see each other as a person, instead of another email they need to reply to.
Be Positive
There’s nothing worse than having to interact with a complainer at work – they can drag down your own outlook and decrease your productivity. Instead of listening to their constant complaining, bring an mp3 player and headphones to work, if possible, and when they do start complaining, respond confidently with your own positive outlook. The more they see you adopting your own outlook and not succumbing to theirs, the less they will complain (at least to you!).
Retain Individuality
It’s crucial to have team bonding skills in today’s job market, but remember to always retain your individuality and personal judgment skills. If you’re working on a team full of negative people, talk to your boss and arm yourself with specific examples. You’re a positive person, able to deal with life’s challenges, so stand your ground and continue being you!
These are just a few of the ways to deal with co-workers who are dragging you down and putting a black cloud over your work day.
What are some examples of negative co-worker personality types you’ve dealt with? How did you get through it?
Image via Samael Kreutz
