7 smart tips to deal with irritating colleagues

Since you have clicked on this article, we assume you are dealing with at least one co-worker who annoys you for all the wrong reasons. The mere thought of seeing his or her face puts you off and sometimes, you even find it difficult to concentrate on your work. Fret not! Instead of ruining your own mood every day and letting it impact your performance in office, read the following points carefully and try analysing the situation logically.

You need to keep in mind that office is a competitive space and you do not go there to make friends. Everyone works under deadlines and are dealing with their own issues, so give them a benefit of doubt at times. Learn to not take things personally and remind yourself ignorance is bliss.

Though, it is a good trait to be upfront and straightforward but playing with words at work helps. Instead of behaving rudely or completely shutting all communication with that colleague, try to be a little diplomatic and don’t strain your relationship.

A few times, try taking the higher road and make efforts to lighten up the environment. Go for a coffee break or a short walk and try to strike a conversation with the person. Just make sure the topics are not work-related. Try understanding the colleague better as a person and you might be able to build a good rapport.

If keeping it casual does not help, it is time to talk to that person privately. Explain that you both have to co-exist at the same place and politely explain what exactly bothers you. Be open to receiving feedback from the colleague and you both can set some mutually-amicable boundaries to fix the situation.

Try analysing your own behaviour and question the way you react to every situation. For instance, do you feel irritated when he or she gets appreciated for work? Maybe, it is your insecurity or the fear of not being good enough that is leading to this hatred. Maybe you don’t like the fact your colleague is always chirpy and cheerful. Instead of getting annoyed, try to learn from the person how to maintain calm and stay jovial at the workplace.

Another tip to de-stress yourself is to vent it all out. Look for someone from outside work and share what all happened during the day. It would help you to feel lighter, and also get a third person's perspective on the situation.

In case you feel you are being bullied and the matter cannot be resolved amicably, don’t be afraid to raise the problem and speak for yourself. Try to come up with proofs and take up this concern with your manager and HR. Remember, the more you stay quiet, the more you empower the bully.

(All images used here are representational)