Toxic coworkers can be a big problem that you need to deal with. Here are some tips to keep your sanity.
We've all got that one person in the office we'd rather not deal with. And that's fine. We can't be best work buddies with everyone. But if that person is a toxic coworker, then you have a big problem you need to deal with. But how do you spot a toxic coworker?
The latest study from office supplier Brother.co.uk has the answers. It identified the six types of toxic work colleagues, as well as the most effective ways to deal with them.
Let's take a look...
The workplace bully
Whether in the playground or the office, all bullies operate the same. They use fear and intimidation and exploit our healthy aversion to unnecessary conflict.
There's only one way to deal with bullies: stand up to them.
But you don't have to go full psycho in the breakroom. These aren't prison rules. Instead, tell them, calmly but firmly, that their behavior is hurtful and unacceptable.
If the issues continue, escalate the problem to HR.
Top tip: If you need to escalate, record all bullying incidents, including what happened and when. Get witness statements if possible.
The micromanagers
Micromanagers are a constant pain in the proverbial 'you-know-where.' These are the managers and supervisors who are constantly checking in, requesting updates, and providing untimely feedback.
Dealing with a micromanager can come down to a simple conversation. Ask for a casual private meeting, then outline why the constant supervision doesn't work for you.
Top Tip: Be selective about what messages/emails you respond to. If you ignore the irrelevant check-ins, your manager might get the point and stop sending them.
The manipulator
The workplace manipulator is one of the most challenging types of toxic teammates to deal with. They make you doubt yourself, your ability, and maybe even your sanity. A high-level manipulator will make you feel like you're the source of any problem.
Top Tip: Manipulators work in the shadows, when people are unaware of their sneaky and shady shenanigans. Calling them out in public robs the manipulator of much of their power.
The insincere flatterer
The insincere flatter is more commonly known as the suck-up. These guys think saying the right things to the right people will get them all the way to the top.
Don't engage with the suck-up. When suck-ups realize that sucking up doesn't work on you, they'll move on to another target.
Top Tip: Reflect the compliment back to nullify the suck-up's power and influence. It's a great way to show that you won't be fooled by flattery.
The office gossip
Every workplace has one. They act like everyone's friends but are loyal to no one but themselves. We're talking, of course, about the office gossip.
Most gossip is relatively harmless and best ignored. But, in some instances, it can damage reputations and careers. This type of gossip is unacceptable and needs to be confronted before it spreads.
Top Tip: Tell the gossip nothing and never trust them with private information. That friend act is just a way to get you to give up more juicy gossip. And remember, if they're gossiping about people to you, then they'll gossip about you to people.
The slacker
The slacker has no qualms about watching others do their share of the work. This lazy, entitled attitude is destructive and can kill a team's morale.
But slacking off can sometimes be a cover for lack of knowledge. If you're managing a slacker, schedule a casual catch-up to see if there's anything they need help with.
Top Tip: Slackers will slack off as much as you allow them to. So don't make excuses for them. They need to be made accountable.
Toxic teammates are a drain on our emotions and productivity. Use these tips to take back the control they have over your workday.
A version of this article appeared on inc.com, posted on January 14, 2023
EXPERD, Human Resources Consultant, Jakarta – Indonesia