Dealing with a difficult coworker requires staying professional and focusing on solutions rather than conflict. Effective strategies emphasize communication, boundaries, and self-management to maintain productivity.
Limit Interactions
Minimize non-essential contact to reduce frustration. Keep necessary discussions brief, polite, and work-focused. This preserves a positive environment without escalating tension.
Communicate Directly
Address issues privately using "I" statements, like "I feel overwhelmed when deadlines shift suddenly." Listen to their perspective first to build empathy and encourage mutual understanding. Focus on behaviors impacting work, not personal attacks.
Set Boundaries
Clearly define acceptable behavior and enforce it consistently. Stay calm by pausing before responding, practicing mindfulness to avoid impulsive reactions. If needed, track specific incidents for documentation.
Seek Support
Contribute positively to the team while building alliances with trusted colleagues. Escalate to a supervisor or HR if the situation persists and affects performance. Prioritize your well-being by modeling respect and solution-oriented approaches.
