Surviving Workplace Personalities

Getting along with co-workers can be one of the largest challenges we face in the workplace.  Working with these individuals isn't easy, but with a few tips and an understanding of what motivates someone, is the first step in making your workplace a better and less stressful environment.  Managers share some responsibility to ensure our workplace allows for maximum productivity; however ultimately it is up to you.  While you can't control what someone else does, you can control how you respond.

First, you must know what makes the person act the way they do.  It could simply be a generational difference or perhaps they are an extrovert who is very social and in your opinion talks too much.  Here are some other examples and a few tips. 

If you encounter a...

"Bully" personality - stand up to the person and describe how the behavior makes you feel.

"Credit Grabber" - Put your name on everything you do and don't let others get away with taking credit for your hard work.

"Know it all" - Present the data to prove your point and encourage seeing all sides of the issue.

"Resister" personality - Introduce change slowly and show the value behind it.

Generational Issues:  It is not unusual for 3-4 generations to work side by side.  Baby Boomers make up 42% of our current workforce and as a general rule are resistant to change, while Gen Y typically embraces change.

Personality Styles:  Personality is not identified by age and therefore a little harder to understand how to deal with.  Your reaction to a difficult person or tactics is key.  Here are a few general tips to prevent a problem from getting out of control.

• Treat co-workers like customers
• Be genuine
• Smile
• Don't get angry
• Acknowledge underlying causes for negativity
• Get to know your co-workers
• Keep a positive attitude
• Be a good team player