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In many ways, the workplace is just like high school. A bunch of people who would never ordinarily choose to be in close proximity are expected to work together on shared goals, for long hours in often stressful conditions. It’s not surprising that sometimes we don’t get on. Writer Fiona Tapp has advice on how to keep your cool – and your job.
According to the Globe and Mail two-thirds of Canadians are working more than 45 hours a week. And love it or not, you spend a lot of time at work. Often with people you like even less, so it’s worth thinking about how to cope with the worst offenders.
Who: Time-wasters
These people turn up late every day, they never meet deadlines, they ask you to help them with tasks, they steal ideas and manage to have an air of entitlement all the while.
How to deal: Don’t take it personally. Managers are aware of the lazy workers, even if it feels like they are getting away with murder. Just focus on your work, and don’t collaborate with them if you can help it.
Who: The Fetid
While they’re no walk in the park to deal with, it’s not only the co-workers with B.O. that are an issue. How about the secretary who bathes in perfume, or the intern who brings in her Bath & Bodyworks lotion and sanitizer – or, worse, the dude who likes to bring in his leftover seafood from Grand Central Oyster Bar.
How to deal: So many office spaces are moving to scent-free policies, as many people have allergies or sensitivities. If your coworker’s scents are bothering you, consider making a complaint, you might not be the only person who is bothered and it’s a fairly easy fix for HR.
Who: The Drama Queen
This nightmare colleague will ensnare you under the guise of friendship, before over sharing intimate details of her personal relationships and work problems. She can often be found in the washroom in floods of tears or drinking too much and making a hot mess of herself at the office Christmas party.
How to deal: Avoid this pariah! Make up excuses not to socialize whilst remaining friendly on the surface; you need to keep this coworker calm – and on your side.
Who: The Controller
The controller has usually worked at the organization since the dawn of time and although they have absolutely no leadership responsibilities (or skills) they have made themselves a quasi-boss. They’ll loudly give their opinions on everything, including your work.
How to deal: this person can be a great resource, as they know the inner workings of the company better than most and have seen others come and go. To that end, be sure to assert yourself to ensure that you aren’t inadvertently acting as this person’s assistant, or worse.
Take this to heart: If your office has quite the tally of idiots, try watching the 1999 movie Office Space. It’ll help you appreciate the band of weirdos you work with – especially when you realize that things could be a helluva lot worse!
Fiona is a freelancer and educator. Use social media to find her on twitter and on Facebook. She also has her own website.
Which kind of co-worker have you encountered? We’d like to hear from you! Share your comments below.