5 Tips To Consider When Co-Workers Are Hostile

Work can be stressful enough without adding coworkers who are not so easy to get along with. While it is ideal for co-workers to get along, everyone has their own perception of appropriate behavior at work.

When a colleague is mean, combative, or even hostile, this can shift the dynamic of your entire team. Leadership or employee(s) may attempt to approach the person, while others might try to ignore their behavior in hopes of avoiding confrontation and hoping the person will stop on their own.

Here we will discuss the options when dealing with a coworker who can be difficult — including but not limited to a regular employee to even superiors such as supervisors and managers.

1. Learn about their behavior, pattern, and personality

· When do they act out?

· What triggers their behavior?

· Are there certain people/tasks/locations that cause them to lash out?

· When did this issue start?

Start by taking detailed notes, including the date, time, and witnesses. Write a summary of what has happened and what led up to the incident(s). The more information, the better!

2. Approach Them

Communication is key, but it’s not always that easy. Some may not realize their behavior is affecting their coworkers, while others may be lashing out on purpose or for attention. Whatever the reasoning is, it is important to address the situation as it comes. Always remain polite and professional, but be firm when necessary. Point out their behavior in a non-confrontational way. If you feel comfortable, you can approach them by calmly saying something like, “My intention is not to upset you, but I don’t appreciate being spoken to that way. Alternatively, you can ask the person, “Is there something that is on your mind that you that you would like to discuss with me?”

3. Inform your Manager/Supervisor

If the person is unapproachable, or you do not feel comfortable speaking to them, ask a manager to intervene. Some may not respond well to constructive criticism, or they may be discouraged by the unwarranted conversation. Never instigate an argument–understand when it is time to involve a higher-up to help mitigate the situation.

4. Involve HR

Maybe you have already confronted the person, or, this person is just too hostile to approach, and no positive change can prevail. Discuss your options with HR and consider filing a formal complaint. The goal is for the person to be aware of their behavior and provide solutions to the situation.

5. Self-Reflection

Keep in mind, sometimes, even with the best intentions, our actions may cause a person to act out. For instance, if you are someone who generally speaks their mind, you may have to self-evaluate and initiate a different approach.

Summary

While the definition of hostile has a broad range, it is essential to have a healthy work environment. Nobody wants to work in a company where they are constantly feeling attacked. Don’t fight fire with fire and do not instigate. The resolution is confronting the situation and finding a happy medium that works for all. There may be times when the person will not change, this is when the company will have to determine what would be the next step. There are many reasons a person may lash out, and sometimes, it has nothing to do with work, it could be their personal life struggles.

Conclusion

Could your business use support in dealing with a hostile employee or even a hostile work environment in general? Contact us at Klein HR Solutions 305-775-5640 or email: [email protected].