Rotten apples can spoil the barrel

byMKearns

7.6K followers

Updated 6 years ago

Things are not always harmonious in the workplace. Problems are always there. It's what is done about them that counts.

There are nine approaches useful in dealing with problematic people:

1. Be calm. Take a reasonable approach. Losing your temper and flaring out at the other person isn't the best way to get him/her to collaborate with you. It is better to assume a calm demeanor.Someone who is calm is seen as being in control, centered and more valuable. Would you prefer to work with someone who is predominantly calm or someone who is always edgy? When the person you are dealing with sees that you are calm despite whatever he/she is doing, you will capture their attention.
2. Understanding the person's reasoning. Look for the underlying reason that is motivating them to act this way. This is not always apparent. Try to identify the trigger. What is making him/her act in this manner? What is stopping them from cooperating with you? How can you help to meet their needs and resolve the situation?
3. Look outwards. Get other's perspectives. Friends and others must have experienced similar situations in some manner. They will be able to see things from a different angle and offer a different take on the situation. Seek them out and share information. Gems of solutions can result from this method!
4. Give the person a view of your perspective. Let your intentions be known. A full perspective leads to helpful empathy.
5. Build rapport.With all the computers, emails and messaging systems, work sometimes turn into a mechanical process. Bring in the human touch by associating with your colleagues on a personal level. Connect with them for lunches or dinners. Create strong connections!
6. Keep respect and self-worth in mind No one likes to be treated as if he/she is stupid/incapable/incompetent. If you are going to treat the person with disrespect, it's not going to be surprising if he/she reciprocates the same way as well.

7. Focus on what can be acted upon.Sometimes, you may be put in trouble by your difficult colleagues, such as not receiving a piece of work they promised to give or being wrongly held responsible for something you didn't do. Acknowledge that the situation has already occurred. Don't harp on what you cannot change, Concentrate steps you can take to help yourself in the situation.

. 8. Ignore.If you have already tried everything above and the person is still not being receptive, the best way might be to just ignore them. You have done your best. Continue on your daily tasks and interface with the person only if needed.

9. In some instances escalate to a higher authority for resolution.When all else fails, reach out to your manager. This is considered a trump card and shouldn't be used unless you've completely exhausted your means. Sometimes, the only way to get someone moving is to use a top-down approach, especially in bureaucratic organizations. Be careful not to exercise this option all the time as your own capability can be called into question.This "nuclear option" properly handled is a very effective way of handling your own problems.

Any or all of these nine approaches are effective in bringing harmony into the business climate. Like tuning a fine stringed instrument.

It works very well on line as well. People are people whether it's a physical or a virtual Wealthy Affiliate environment!