10 Strategies for Dealing With Difficult People at Work

In every workplace, we often find ourselves navigating many challenges, a labyrinth of complexities and imperfections, and challenges that are bound to arise. While equipment malfunctions can occasionally hinder productivity, the dynamics among co-workers often pose the most significant hurdles. It’s important to acknowledge that no one is perfect, as we all possess unique flaws. However, certain flaws can manifest into significant problems when they impact others in the work environment.

These inappropriate behaviors can be any of the following:

• Messiness which results in misplaced belongings and documents.
• A “favour mentality” where superiors exert influence by continually reminding you that they are responsible for your paycheck.
• Very high expectations.
• Late in, early out.
• “When the boss is away…” mentality.
• Recency bias among employees’ achievements.
  
  

Workplace dynamics are complex and multifaceted. Interpersonal conflicts, communication breakdowns, and differing work styles can all contribute to a less-than-ideal atmosphere. 

You might try to ignore it at first. But as time passes and the difficult personalities continue, the frustration builds up and you dread coming to work. Your performance is affected and so will the quality of your work. And that’s just the effect on you, think of the impact on the other people as well. When the whole workforce is affected, the organization’s reputation suffers.

Understanding Difficult People

Common Types of Difficult People in the Workplace

1. The Micromanager

A micromanager keeps an eye on and critiques every little detail of your task. These people are often perfectionists. While being a perfectionist isn’t a bad trait per se, they can be challenging to work with.

High expectations and control are at the forefront of the micromanager’s mind. They are often inflexible and don’t give you room for creative liberties. It’s their way or nothing at all.

2. The Complainer

As previously mentioned, every workplace isn’t perfect. There will always be something to complain about whether it’s about the workplace or something personal. 

A complainer however does this to an annoying degree. They would always find something to complain about but not do anything to help fix it. They are unhappy and unsatisfied with the most minor things.

3. The Gossiper

Gossiping isn’t something new in the workplace. But destructive gossipers can be the downfall of friendships and camaraderie in the workplace.

These people spread untrue rumors about someone or share some private details without a person’s permission. Their actions sow distrust and chaos in workplace dynamics.

4. The Bully

The bully is someone who harasses others, whether physically, verbally, or even online. They usually target the ones who don’t fit into some kind of standard or group.

They use whatever advantage they have to intimidate their victim. The intimidation factor usually comes down to position and influence as they can threaten to send a bad word to their superiors or outright demotion.

5. The Procrastinator

A little procrastination is all right according to studies. But too much and projects are delayed and everyone’s schedule falls into disarray. Severe cases even involve people not doing their work entirely and making excuses for it. This creates frustration among the people affected by the delays. 

Unravelling the Mystery: The Whys Behind Challenging Conduct

Labelling someone as ‘difficult’ is often a simplistic reaction to a more complex reality. People are intricate tapestries of emotions, experiences, and perspectives. At times, behaviours that come across as challenging or uncooperative may be the visible tip of a vast iceberg of underlying factors. Approaching these situations with an open mind and a compassionate heart can help peel back the layers, revealing a deeper understanding and inviting empathy into the equation

When a coworker displays problematic behavior, consider the following probable reasons.

1. Personal Insecurities

A lot of times, toxic behavior comes from a personal place. Feelings like jealousy and frustration are the usual characteristics of a difficult person. 

These characteristics cause them to look for an outlet to let out those feelings or simply to feel better about themselves. Unfortunately, that outlet tends to be other people–people who are in the lower ranks or those who are more vulnerable. 

2. Work-Related Stress

Too much stress overloads the brain and can cause people to lash out. When this happens, it’s best not to take anything personally and suggest that the person take a break.

3. Lack of Communication Skills

In some instances, someone could just be bad at communicating their thoughts. These individuals may possess valuable insights, perspectives, and intentions, but they struggle to convey them clearly and concisely. Consequently, their message may become distorted or lost in translation, leading to unintended consequences and discord. 

4. Power Struggles

Power struggles are usually the root of some toxic behaviors. Some people will do anything to rise up the corporate ladder, even at the expense of their companions.

In some cases, someone may be having trouble with their position. Employees may have undermined their authority or are in precarious standing with the organization’s upper crust.