Coworkers who are difficult to deal with can impact your work performance and personal perspective negatively. There could be many reasons for your coworker’s discontent, nonetheless, they should not affect your emotional wellbeing. There are many effective ways to promote harmony in the workplace.

Of course, you’ll know if these will work in your workplace or decide if something a bit different is more appropriate for your environment. Try these tactics for more peaceful interactions with difficult coworkers:

1. First, talk with your coworker. In the case of a workplace dispute, supervisors generally appreciate employees who demonstrate the maturity to resolve their own conflicts. If feasible, start by speaking directly with the individual.

It’s easier to work with coworkers that develop trust in each other and work as a team. This is especially true if everyone is committed to being respectful and straightforward even when there are disagreements.

2. Know when it is necessary to consult with a supervisor or the human resources department. If you and your coworker can’t resolve the situation privately, it might be time to escalate the issue. Follow your company’s policies and procedures and ensure that your coworker is aware of the appropriate avenue to express their concerns.
3. Discuss any inappropriate behaviors. When speaking with your coworker, it is okay to mention the conduct that you think is inappropriate. If necessary, you can explain how it’s disruptive.

For example, if you’ve heard negative statements made in front of clients, describe how that could hurt the company’s reputation.

Be open to any feedback about your own conduct that may be a contributing factor in the situation and guide the discussion towards finding viable solutions.

4. Work with the perfectionist to be more realistic. There are some coworkers who will complain because they have high expectations that are difficult to meet with the time and resources available. Try to reach a consensus about what is actually feasible in this instance.

When your coworker does a good job, congratulate them on their successes. Let them know you recognize their talents, whatever they might be.

5. Introduce change into the situation gradually. Some people are resistant to change and find it unsettling. If you anticipate that upcoming events are likely to create conflict, try to give notice. Some people accept unwelcome changes more gracefully if they’re notified in advance and understand the reasoning behind them.
6. Avoid any type of personal criticism. Sometimes criticism can be an indication of insecurity. If you work with someone who makes unfavorable remarks about others, the situation can sometimes be improved by helping them to feel better about their own abilities.

Another option that works well is changing the conversation to something positive. Avoid participating in the mockery and making of unfavorable remarks.

7. As you make progress towards a more positive workplace environment, keep the momentum going with constructive follow up. Ask if your coworker’s complaints have been resolved to their satisfaction and thank people for all their efforts.

Remember for your own peace of mind that you will want to:

1. Remember your coworker’s good qualities. It will be easier to maintain a pleasant working relationship if you understand their point of view. Keep their strengths in mind instead of focusing on what you find irritating.
2. Remain friendly and keep exchanges constructive. Keep up conversations pleasant so you’re in an amiable environment.
3. Keep your sense of humor. Any situation is easier if you can actually laugh about it. Who knows, you might be able to find some entertainment value in your coworkers’ bellyaching.
4. Cultivate a strong support network. If you still sense negativity, stay strong with a good support network. Look to your family and friends for strength.

Difficult coworkers can make getting the day and being at work hard for you. By taking some initiative and creating a more positive workplace, you can help eliminate tension and improve your own morale.