Is The Lack Of Getting Along With Others Keeping You From A Promotion?
Regardless of where you work, there is a huge chance that you will encounter a few people that you will not like for some reason. It may have something to do with their work ineptitude, their obnoxious manner, or maybe even an irritating mannerism. It is virtually impossible to like everyone in the office and fortunately, you don't have to. You do need to find ways of getting over your personal differences and making sure your productivity is not put at risk.
Since you can't avoid coming across these people who are simply hard to work with, you might as well equip yourself with skills to be able to handle the situation in a professional manner.
1. Do Not Act Like The Boss
Unless you're a high-ranking officer in your company, you do not have the privilege of giving direct orders to your co-workers and instructing them on the right way to perform their responsibilities. You really can't do much to change other people's attitude towards work or modify the way they do their jobs.
The only thing you need to worry about is what you need to get done. Worrying about everyone else is only going to make you more stressed out than you need to be.
2. Talk Out Your Problems
For some people, a direct confrontation is the most effective way to resolve issues. Others prefer talking on the phone. Both of these methods are fine, but you might want to avoid attempting to solve the problem via email.
When someone reads something they only read it as they would say it, or believe you meant it. They don't know the tone in which you would like them to hear it. If this is the only way to communicate with that person, make sure you read it a few times through and make it sound less harsh before sending it to them.
3. Don't Gossip
Keep your issues to yourself. It doesn't take long for an office place to spread news. The message may get skewed, and sound much different from person to person. It's like that childhood game Telephone. Also, remember not to contribute to other people's gossip.
You can avoid unintentionally spreading rumors in the office by keeping quiet about your concerns, at least in the workplace. Of course, you can talk to your spouse or your best friend about the issue, as long as they are not directly affiliated to your company.
4. Don't Hold Grudges Against Your Co-workers
Let go of bad feelings. You can't hold grudges in the workplace. It doesn't do any good to anyone.
Feeling these negative emotions will have unwanted effects on your work productivity, so it will be best for you to just let the feelings go and concentrate on more vital issues.
Instead, stay focused on your tasks and think pleasant and positive thoughts throughout the day to keep you mind occupied.
5. List The Reasons You Don't Care For That Co-worker
This may seem like an unnecessary and overindulgent thing to do, but this is an effective way of staying unaffected by your co-worker's actions. As soon as an item makes it to the list, do not allow your mind to think of it again.
Create your list in a clear and orderly manner. In case you choose to file a formal complaint against your office-mate, this list can serve as a supporting document.
Once you implement these techniques in the workplace you can go about your work day without incident.
Want to know more on how to get along with people you don't like? Learn more about getting along by going to: www.SuperSonicSuccess.com
Published February 2nd, 2009
Filed in Management