by Toni Foyer

Created on: September 29, 2009   Last Updated: September 30, 2009

There came a time in my career that working with a difficult and challenging personality not only created much stress but also affected my ability to be productive. However, much was learned from that experience and I can offer some valuable advice on how to cope and deal with personality conflicts at work.

Think before Reacting

It happens too often we lead with our emotions and confrontations tend to heighten those emotions and can create negative impacts on both parties. You need to take the time to acknowledge that some personalities will not always mesh with yours and its better at times to just concede. Before reacting to a comment, breathe and then ascertain the situation. Is it really worth the trouble to engage in the argument while at work?

Talk outside of work

It's difficult enough to deal with the stress we experience at work and to bring another element of clashing personalities just makes for a miserable day. You should take the initiative and approach the co-worker to meet at a neutral destination. By doing this, the atmosphere is much more relaxing and open to a more effective dialogue. Also, make sure it's public so there are no outbursts during the conversation. You need to be open and honest during this communication process. Try to understand one another's perspectives and delve deeper into the root of the personality clash. What are the circumstances that made them this way? Too often we are unable to relate to another's situation because we are so wrapped up in our own world. It is possible that there can be a compromise by taking the time to listen to one another.

Communicate with Management

If there cannot be a resolution to the continuous personality conflicts, it's best to get managers involved. Managers hopefully will provide some relief and solutions which will create a more productive working environment. As part of their responsibility, managers must alleviate the tension between co-workers that are not communicating well and deal head on with the problem. Some of these solutions can include letting each party vent their concerns and discuss why they feel the way they do, once a week have more team building activities, and lastly, give the employees an ultimatum which both parties would need to work out their differences or else a decision will be made to let someone go. This should be the last resort for the manager but if they see no other way and it's causing loss of money or production for the company, there will be no other choice.

These are just a few ideas for some resolution. Also, make sure if you are experiencing a difficult personality at work, do not let it cause you to lose your job.

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