How to Handle a Competitive Coworker: 3 Tips

Описание: Dealing with Competitive Coworker

There’s nothing more annoying than the coworker who’s constantly trying to one up you, speak over you, get the last word in, prove they are better and perhaps try to make you look bad. It’s so easy to get tangled into a dance with them where you find yourself running in a circle. You might find yourself chasing your own tail and missing out at opportunities right in front of you. Today I want to give you 3 tips for working with these type of people.

1. Maintain Focus
Simply put, don’t compete with this person. Remind yourself that the only person you really need to impress is your boss and customers, both internal and external, and yourself. Focus on your own goals and fulfilling your own obligations. If you foster solid relationships with others, focus on building strong partnerships outside of this person, you’ll be well respected and considered a valuable member of the team. Chances are, other people within the team will recognize this person’s nature for what it is.

2. Embrace the competitive coworker
Remember that every relationship requires two people. If you find yourself constantly responding and engaging in the competition, then you’ll never get ahead of the problem. It’s possible that this person believes you are trying to compete with them. If possible, try to show this person that you are on the same team and more of a collaborator than a competitor. If they offer a good suggestion, give them credit. Let them know that you recognize their value to the team. Often times this competitive nature stems from their own insecurities. If your goals are dependent on this person’s participation, try to find ways to help them assuage their insecurities by showing them that you are on their side and working toward the same goals. If that’s not working, pull this person aside, and have a private, direct discussion. Let them know that you are not looking to compete.

3. Think like the boss
The boss, unless they are the insecure competitor, will want everyone on their team to be successful. They aren’t looking for only one of their employees to be the best while everyone else is sub par. If your boss wins, then everyone wins. If necessary, it’s OK to talk to your boss but you don't want to be a tattletale. And when you do talk to your boss, keep it professional, be specific and be able to support your position. Don't get personal; don't whine; and don't gripe.

If none of these things seem to help, Be honest about what kind of toll continuing to work with her will take on you, and if getting a new job is the answer, don't let yourself feel bad about it, or feel like she "won." Because the only way you actually win at professional life is by having a job you don't hate to go to every morning.

If you have any other ideas that have worked for you, please post those in the comment section below. Thanks for visiting livemorenow.net