Personal feelings do not magically disappear because you are working in a professional environment. In fact, they can get in the way of a productive workday and make the work day uncomfortable and tense. Working together does not mean you will like each other. Coworkers are made up of a variety of people that may or may not get along outside of work. Do not go running to find a new job just yet. There are ways to get through the work day, without being miserable.
Take a moment to remember you are all working towards a common goal. You really are at the office to work, not socialize. Focus on the task at hand and avoid personal conversation that may cause controversy. You can be an activist for your personal convictions when you head out the door at the end of the day. Sometimes you will find your best friend in a co-worker, however, personal conversations are best kept out of the work place. This does not mean you need to be someone you are not. It simply means your interactions with disagreeable coworkers should involve only work related content. You may find that focusing on solving work problems is enough common ground to make the day bearable. After all, everyone there wants to finish on time and get out the door and home to their families.
If you do not really need to speak to the person you have a problem with, stay away. Perhaps another employee could drop off those papers on her desk, or pick up her filing. If things are extremely difficult consider taking an earlier or later lunch hour so you can work alone while they are at lunch to get some peace. Make an effort not to instigate anything inappropriate.
If the situation is getting out of control, it is best to let someone in a higher position know there is a problem. Be careful not to place blame. Tell your boss you are experiencing some differences with the co worker and be honest about how it is affecting your work goals. Sometimes a boss will have a solution you have not thought of. At the very least, they will be aware of the problem should anything come up at a later date in relation to the conflict.
Bite your tongue! Do not add to the problem by speaking rudely. The work place should be a safe and polite environment. If the other person is using foul language report it immediately and do not respond. Face to face interactions are not the only conversations that contribute to animosity. Take a close look at how you talk to other co workers about the person in question. A person who spreads gossip are talks behind someone’s back is a part of the problem, not the solution. This will likely put you at odds with more people.
Are there any bonding activities in your workplace? Take the initiative to plan a company picnic or other social outing outside of office hours. Sometimes, seeing people in a relaxed environment with their families around can help to view them differently.
Workplace relations are important for a successful business. There are usually rules in place pertaining to office behavior. While most employees gain a level of comfort over time, it is pertinent that polite, professional behavior still reign as the norm. A peaceful workplace reduces stress and helps work to progress as needed.
