How To Work With a Difficult Co-Worker

Working with a difficult coworker can be challenging, but using strategic communication, emotional regulation, and boundary-setting can help maintain professionalism and reduce workplace tension. Here’s how to handle the situation effectively:

1. Stay Professional & Emotionally Neutral

• Manage your emotions – Avoid reacting impulsively; take a deep breath before responding.

• Keep interactions business-focused – Stick to work-related topics and avoid personal conflicts.

• Use neutral language – Avoid blaming statements and focus on facts.

Example: Instead of saying, "You never listen to my ideas," say, "I’d like to contribute to this discussion—can we explore different approaches?"

2. Understand Their Behavior & Perspective

• Identify patterns – What triggers their difficult behavior? Is it stress, insecurity, or poor communication skills?

• Empathy can help – Sometimes, understanding where they’re coming from makes interactions easier.

• Consider their strengths – Even difficult coworkers have skills that might be valuable to the team.

3. Set Boundaries & Manage Expectations

• Limit unnecessary interactions – Keep conversations brief and to the point.

• Document important conversations – If there’s a history of conflict, keep records of emails or meeting notes.

• Know when to disengage – If they are being unreasonable, politely end the conversation ("Let’s revisit this when we’re both clearer on the next steps.").

4. Improve Communication

• Use "I" statements – Helps prevent defensiveness (e.g., "I feel overwhelmed when deadlines aren’t clear. Can we clarify expectations?").

• Ask clarifying questions – This prevents misunderstandings ("Just to confirm, you’re saying we should prioritize Task A over Task B?").

• Mirror their communication style – If they prefer emails over in-person chats, adapt accordingly.

5. Address the Issue Directly (If Necessary)

• Schedule a private conversation – Avoid confronting them in front of others.

• Stay solution-focused – Instead of blaming, discuss how to improve collaboration.

• Use HR or a mediator if needed – If conflicts persist and impact work, involve a neutral third party.

6. Maintain Your Own Well-Being

• Don’t take it personally – Their behavior often reflects their struggles, not your worth.

• Vent wisely – Talk to a mentor or trusted colleague, not office gossip.

• Focus on your own performance – Stay professional and let your work speak for itself.

Contact Bee Blissful to learn how to manage work-related stress.