Yes, we all have them. You know that one person who always slacks behind? Or that colleague who thinks they are better than everyone else at their job? What about that person who's just really annoying to work with and every little thing they do after a while starts to bug you?
Yep, I have all of 'em where I work.
See, I have my issues with them all. The slacker gets away with it. I've worked with this person before alone and I know that they can do the work, and can do it well. Not only that, but we've both been doing exactly the same job for over two years now. There's no excuse for not getting it right, they're just being lazy.
The annoying perfectionist is great at their job but is far too uptight about each little detail. To enjoy my job I have to be able to relax, but when I'm around this person I'm uptight and agrivated. It's also very hard to keep to their standard, so when it comes to producing something, you have to work very hard to avoid disappointment.
The critisiser/complainer is the worst to work with. There's nothing more frustrating than someone pointing out something negative when you've been working hard when they've been doing half the hours you have. Also, when we mention how energy-consuming the job can be, she always says, "Yeah but you're young, you'll find it easier." What!? Just because I'm younger doesn't make it any easier. I have Scoliosis, sista. My bad back doesn't exactly help. The worst part is when the criticiser points out small things you missed while you were 'taking one for the team' and working so much overtime that it must be illegal, especially when said person isn't perfect themselves.
The creepy guy... there must be one in every establishment. There have been a few occasions where I've been left feeling a bit confused after someone has made a disrespectful comment, but thankfully I haven't had it too bad in my place of work, I've always been able to laugh it off afterwards.
Ok so, after two years of dealing with this crazy bunch, I've learnt a few things.
1. Stay calm. Especially when management is involved. Shouting and giving off is *not* going to help, it'll just get you in more trouble. If you've a real problem with someone, mention it quietly to your manager. I've also found that even if you're dying to scream out what's going on inside your head, it's best just to nod your head and wait your turn to talk. I've seen other people lose their heads and it made me realise that being calm and civil is the way forward.
2. Keep yourself in the right. Always do your job to the best of your ability, then you'll have proof of your hard work if an annoying colleague takes a dislike to you. Also, record any incidents you think might be worth recording. They're useful to have in case you need more proof.
3. Always stay civil and don't bitch about your colleagues to other colleagues. I'll admit I'm guilty of this myself, especially in the heat of the moment when I'm annoyed and someone else is there who agrees with you. But trust me, it always gets back to them. It also makes you look bad, and you're trying to stay in the good books, remember? Respect others and maybe they'll respect you back.
4. Understand the person's intentions. Try to get your head around what the other person is thinking. And if you can't do that, try to ignore it.
Let me hear your own stories!
Twitter - aisduffy
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