Rapport Building and Navigating Conflict with Colleagues: 4 Key Tips

Working with difficult coworkers can be a challenging and stressful experience. Whether it's a colleague who constantly criticizes your work or a team member who always seems to have a negative attitude, building positive relationships with difficult coworkers is essential for a harmonious work environment. In this blog post, we will explore four key tips to help you build better relationships with your challenging colleagues. I have personally utilized and shared these tips with people in my personal life and have been able to maintain positive relationships with my colleagues. Most of the time, issues start off with something small and these tips will help resolve this :)

1. Practice Empathy

One of the most effective ways to build relationships with difficult coworkers is to practice empathy. Put yourself in their shoes and try to understand their perspective. People often behave difficultly due to personal or professional challenges they are facing. By showing empathy, you can create a safe space for open communication and foster understanding.

When dealing with a difficult coworker, take a moment to reflect on their situation. Are they overwhelmed with work? Are they dealing with personal issues? By considering these factors, you can approach them with compassion and offer support. Remember, everyone has their struggles, and showing empathy can go a long way in building a positive relationship.

Demonstrating empathy includes being respectful at all times. Even if they are getting under your skin, making it challenging to complete tasks or other issues.

2. Communicate Effectively

Clear and effective communication is crucial when dealing with difficult coworkers. It's important to express your thoughts and concerns in a respectful and assertive manner. Avoid getting defensive or confrontational, as this may escalate the situation.

When discussing issues with a difficult coworker, choose an appropriate time and place for the conversation. Find a private space where you can talk without interruptions. Start the conversation by acknowledging their perspective and expressing your desire to work together more effectively.

Active listening is also an essential part of effective communication. Give your coworker your full attention and avoid interrupting them. Repeat back what they've said to ensure understanding and show that you value their input. By practicing open and honest communication, you can build trust and improve your relationship with difficult coworkers. Doing this technique a few times can do wonders in building rapport.

3. Find Common Ground

Building relationships with difficult coworkers becomes easier when you find common ground. Look for shared interests, hobbies, or goals that you can bond over. This can help create a positive connection and build rapport. You can also bond over work, through a shared project, an upcoming staff gift exchange, or another activity you are both participating in. Bounce some gift ideas around, or talk about how excited you are about rolling out a new project.

Take the time to get to know your difficult coworker on a personal level. Engage in casual conversations and show genuine interest in their lives. Ask about their weekend plans, their favorite hobbies, or their opinions on non-work related topics. By finding common ground, you can build a foundation for a more positive and collaborative working relationship.

You can also say something like "I'm thinking of bringing in some snacks for our next meeting, what kind of pastries do you think I should get?" This creates an opportunity for their input, you taking it, doing something positive for the team, and also allows for positive small talk.

4. Set Boundaries

Setting boundaries is essential when dealing with difficult coworkers. It's important to establish what is acceptable behavior and what is not. Communicate your boundaries clearly and assertively, while also respecting the boundaries of others.

If a coworker consistently crosses your boundaries, address the issue directly. Be firm but polite, and explain how their behavior is impacting your work or well-being. By setting and enforcing boundaries, you can create a healthier work dynamic and maintain your own emotional well-being.

If you feel like the issue needs to be escalated, then do escalate it to HR. I have personally been in situations where mediation with HR was necessary. This is sometimes helpful and sometimes quite unhelpful so use your judgement. If you think you can resolve this without company involvement then that is probably your best bet.

Building relationships with difficult coworkers takes time and effort, but it is possible. By practicing empathy, communicating effectively, finding common ground, and setting boundaries, you can improve your relationships with challenging colleagues and create a more positive work environment. Remember, everyone has their own struggles, and by approaching difficult coworkers with understanding and respect, you can build bridges and foster a more harmonious workplace.