Coexisting with Difficult Coworkers

Have a problem with a colleague at work? This problem is encountered by employees in any workplace, doing virtually any kind of job. People are all different, and those differences can lead to conflict at work.

Dealing with coworker conflict is a communication issue. Do you ´confront´ the coworker in hopes of a solution? Alternatively, do you go directly to Management or the company´s Human Resources office?

Every situation - and potential solution - differs. Criteria that apply in making one´s choice include the temperament of the coworker causing the problem, and as well the company policies governing the conduct. Legal rights may play a role as well.

The key thing to remember is to document the problem, then document the communication method employed to address the problem. Documenting a concern does two important things. First, by documenting the communication that is made, the reader gleans the importance of the matter to the writer. Written communications - generally speaking - always impart a level of importance that merely verbal communications cannot match. Second, a written communication addressing the concern forms a record that concern was indeed expressed. This fact is very useful should subsequent, additional steps be undertaken. Being able to prove you made initial efforts to solve the problem is always beneficial.