Sandpaper people have rough personalities that intimidate the people around them. The workplace is no stranger to this kind. Unfortunately, having people like this in the team can cause misunderstanding and unwanted stress. Here’s how to deal with this kind of co-worker:
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| Image source: Dailymail.co.uk |
Take the lead.
Instead of being scared of the office bully, a person can choose to take the lead. From just taking commands from this character, the employee can offer improved methods and work flow. However, one must ensure that he or she is going about work the right way. Results and influence speak volumes about a person’s work ethic. When a bullied co-worker rises above the situation excellently, this might take the spotlight away from the employee who drags everyone down.
Enlist help.
In most cases, other people in the office usually notice a co-worker’s sandpaper attitude. When it becomes destructive and starts hindering the productivity of other employees, it is only fitting to enlist help from other co-workers to report this case of bad behavior to HR or superiors. A rough attitude should not be tolerated in an office where people need to keep a professional stance. Letting the sandpaper person know that co-workers will take action might make him or her think twice before acting disrespectfully.
Confront civilly.
Some sandpaper people have no idea that they’re already getting in everyone’s nerves. For these types, it is important to calmly talk to them and explain why many people in the office are offended by their actions. While this might not lead them to change overnight, knowing that people are noticing their missteps might make them deliberate on what they are doing in the workplace. In this situation, it is alright to take the time to listen to their side of the story. Empathy does wonders for people.
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| Image source: Livescience.com |
Conflicts and misunderstandings in the office are not new. The key is to understand the situation and be a part of the solution. It also helps to keep a professional front and establish a good rapport with everyone.
Emile Haddad is a Seattle-based business consultant who teaches entrepreneurs about the importance of respect in the workplace. Once respect is present in the office, employees will learn to follow their superiors not because they are told to, but because they want to. To learn more about Emile’s work, visit this page.
