Use Compassion to Combat Difficult Coworkers

The adage "Kill 'em with kindness" holds more water than you might think, especially when it comes to dealing with tough personalities in the workplace. Some people are just difficult to work with, and sometimes the best way to get along is to be compassionate with them.

Unfortunately, you don't always have the luxury of choosing who you interact with at work. We all know what it's like when that coworker you hate talking to approaches your desk. Over at the blog Girls Just Wanna Have Funds, they propose a simple way to deal with them: be compassionate.

That isn't to say you should apologize when it's not your fault, or take responsibility for tasks that aren't yours, but they do suggest recognizing how defensive the person makes you, and try to approach the situation with understanding and openness instead of caution and attitude. It's very possible that the person has the same trepidation working with you, or that their negativity would vanish if confronted with someone unfazed by it.

It takes practice, but its true: when you approach even the most difficult people in your workplace with an open attitude and a willingness to help, they'll see value in what you do, and so will your manager. There will still be annoying people, and you'll still have frustrating days, but the right attitude goes a long way towards making a difficult job more tolerable.

How do you deal with your irksome colleagues? Do you ignore them, or is it just a nightmare every time you're forced to work with them? Share your office tips in the comments. Photo by Wonderlane.

Use Compassion to Combat Difficult Coworkers

Managing Difficult Personalities In The Workplace: Tips to Maintain Your Sanity | Girls Just Wanna Have Funds
