U-Turn Ahead

Whether its the singing in the cubicle or the mess in the break room, anyone who works in an office has had to deal with annoying coworker behaviors. But what’s the best way to address these problems? Here are some strategies for making your work environment a little less frustrating and your coworkers a bit more tolerable.

My first recommendation is to just be honest. Let the person know what it is that bothers you and why. Be polite, but direct. I believe most annoying coworkers simply don’t know that they are bothering others in the office. Maybe Tom figures that since his office mates loved his rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody during Karaoke Night, that his singing might be welcomed in the office as well. When this happens, just mention to Tom that you have a hard time getting your work done when he signs. By saying the problem is with your concentration, it lessens the blow to Tom’s ego.

Here are some specific tips you can try when simply being honest is not working:

When a coworker drops by frequently to chat - The next time Wanda comes by your office to chat, stand up to greet her. Then remain standing during the conversation. Don’t offer her a seat or comment on what she is sharing. At the first pause, smile and let politely say something like, “Interesting, well, I have to get back to work.” Oh, and don’t have a candy jar on your desk unless you want to invite coworkers to drop by.

When a coworker uses their speaker phone in a cubicle or office with the door open - If they are in an office with a door, simply get up and close the door yourself. When you do this, nod to the person as if you are trying not to disturb them. Maybe they will get the hint. If there is no door to close, you may just have to have another talk about your problem concentrating with loud conversation around you.

When a team member isn’t doing their share - First, be sure that the team member feels comfortable in the group and understands their role. Provide opportunities for them to get involved. Sometimes their lack of work is simply not being sure what is expected of them. If that still doesn’t work, you may want to have a talk with your supervisor. It’s not fair for the group to carry one team member.

A coworker with an offensively strong odor - Odors from cologne, food or just lack of good hygiene are difficult to address. People tend to take odor issues very personally. But these matters must be addressed head on. If this is a problem that others have also noticed, I suggest having someone who gets along well with the coworker talk to them in private. If no one wants to do this, or the problem persists, the coworkers supervisor will need to get involved.

Your coworker always needs your help resolving problems or completing tasks - First, be sure the person has been properly trained for the position. Try giving them written instructions for the problem tasks. If the problem is with office equipment such as the computer or copier, show them where the manual is and suggest they try to solve the problem before seeking help. Next time they ask for help, you ask them if they have tried everything in the manual. Make them responsible for working out the problem.

Some coworker problems are best handled by the person’s immediate supervisor. In the end, the boss is responsible for creating a pleasant and productive work environment. If your attempts to handle a problem have proven unsuccessful, speak to your supervisor and ask them to resolve the matter. Sometimes the worse office problems such as gossip and worker laziness must be addressed by management. Don’t hesitate to speak to someone higher up when the problem is affecting your workday.

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