by April Mims

Created on: April 10, 2008   Last Updated: April 11, 2008

We've all had to deal with difficult coworkers at one time or another. Whether it's the person that screams and shouts, the person with the negative attitude, or the person that knows it all, conflict between coworkers is natural and inevitable. While we can't change the difficult coworker, we can change how we deal with that person. With commitment, practice, and patience, we can use several different strategies to effectively handle situations involving the difficult coworker.

Difficult people come in all shapes, sizes and temperaments. As a result, there isn't a "one size fits all" solution to deal with these people. It is important to first determine what type of difficult coworker you are dealing with and then take appropriate action to resolve the conflict. Below are six difficult behaviors that we commonly encounter in the workplace and strategies that can be used to diffuse the situation while hopefully preserving and building the relationship.

Bullying. Much like bullies we had to deal with in elementary school, many of us encounter bullies in the workplace. These are the people that are attacking, accusing, intimidating, and confrontational. They think they are always right and get irritated or angry when they are met with resistance. This is perhaps the most difficult behavior to deal with.

To effectively deal with bullies, it is important to stand up for yourself without fighting. Standing up for yourself definitely takes courage but is the only way to stop bullying from continuing. Throughout any interaction with a bully, maintain eye contact and be ready to be friendly. It is also helpful to have the difficult person sit down if you or others are sitting down. This helps to equalize the aspect of physical dominance.

Anger. Dealing with an angry coworker is another workplace behavior that should be handled carefully to avoid further difficulties. The angry coworker is one that yells or screams, much like an adult version of a tantrum. This rage often turns into suspicion or blaming of other coworkers and is unpleasant for everyone.

The best way to handle this behavior is to remain calm and give them time to run down. Show them that you take them seriously but calmly inform them that this type of behavior is not acceptable and will not be tolerated.

Know-it-all. Know-it-alls are difficult to work with too because they are always right. Although they are highly productive, thorough and accurate performers, they have a low tolerance for correction or

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