As managers, dealing with other people in the workplace is a never-ending hurdle, particularly toxic co-workers. And the fact is that it’s unavoidable - it demands a positive attitude even in stressful situations, which could sometimes be one of the hardest things to do. People aren’t all alike, and sometimes as human beings, this can lead to possible hostility.
Dealing with differences can be difficult, and that becomes a massive hindrance to fostering a healthy work environment. Thus, calling for the importance of self-assessment and collaborative activities such as team building will turn conflict and difficulty into cooperation. It will help develop a harmonious work environment for everyone.
Here are actionable techniques to improve relationships and deal with toxic co-workers:
1. Be in Control
Be professional. Do not let yourself be drowned by pressure no matter the circumstances. Controlling your emotions is necessary for making fair judgment calls when handling difficult people.
When someone shouts at you, don’t shout back. Remain calm and respectful - this is the best response you can give to any individual, even during heated exchanges. Remaining calm will also help you to think of a solution and come up with a relevant response to the person.
2. Judge the Behavior, Not the Person
Be completely aware of the situation and know their intentions. It is very common for people to judge another person negatively without analyzing and understanding the root of it all.
To reasonably perceive a situation of conflict: first, you have to identify the problem, know who are the people involved, and find out how it started. Second, get to see a person beyond the surface. It allows you to have a better understanding which usually leads to having a positive response in resolving the problem. Lastly, conduct a strategic plan in resolving the issue without any biases. By doing so, you can be able to properly communicate in a way that will help you cope with their attitude and develop a better relationship.
3. Give Constructive Feedback
When you give feedback to your co-workers, focus on the parts that they can improve on - be constructive.
Saying overly negative things won’t encourage them to listen. But try to appreciate and compliment something they did well. Kind words create a positive atmosphere because it could make them more receptive to your remarks. It’s vital to address mistakes in a way where they can foster improvement within themselves. Remember, a calm response develops a resolution to any issue.
4. Know Your Rights
Be conscious and know when to take action. You can be understanding and patient but always know when to stand up for yourself. When a person exceeds the limit and becomes abusive, fight for your rights. This is the reason why laws are implemented; it aims to protect the rights of a person and to ensure that they don’t have to do it on their own.
Also, there are specific rules and regulations in every organization that comes with a penalty if violated. Do not be afraid to escalate a complaint to a higher authority than yourself. Know and stick to the policy and guidelines because this will keep you in a safer zone.
5. Conduct an Employee Assistance Program
A toxic environment can be draining; that’s why workplace counseling is essential in supporting a healthy work setting. Problems affect the employees' performance; therefore providing advice can help them implement resolution to their issues and improve themselves.
Every company should have this because it gives a safe place for the employees to discuss their work or personal struggles. This will help them develop effective ways to cope up with challenges that are surfacing in the workplace.
6. Organize Team Buildings
As stated in the introduction, the importance of team building is to refine relationships and bring forth cooperation within the organization. Focus on activities that will not just give enjoyment but will effectively hone skills and critical thinking, and foster innate teamwork.
Outdoor activities result in physical and mental activeness which provides them with the capability to perceive situations better. This will also urge them to communicate interactively and express their thoughts and opinions clearly.
7. Give Seminars and Training
It’s necessary to have follow-up activities after team building. There should be consistency in providing seminars and training so there will be consistent growth and improvement within the organization. Engaging them to events where they can reflect, learn, and innovate ideas will make their work performance better.
This will also enable them to recondition themselves mentally so they could be more productive and efficient as they face challenges in the workplace - and that includes dealing with toxic co-workers.
8. Strengthening Relationships
Be the one who builds, not who destroys. Always think of a solution that will amend the situation. Avoid biases. Make decisions that would be beneficial for everyone. You should aim for the betterment of the whole team. Pay attention to how you will be able to build a better relationship between the employees because that will establish a healthy work environment.
You should also be keen in observing situations and persons because this will allow you to think of a strategy that will alleviate the conflict. Stay calm and reserved; this will help you form resolutions.
Key Takeaway
It is inevitable to have difficult people around you. But it doesn’t mean that you can’t do something about it. You have to practice patience and understanding towards them but don’t forget to apply professional factors that will help you turn a negative situation into a better one. The importance of uniting people and immersing them in activities that will test their skills, character, and teamwork will help them cultivate better relationships and self-improvement.
Team buildings are often conducted to strengthen bonds and make a harmonious work environment. It helps develop relationships for colleagues to gain a better understanding of each other's personalities. It’s a great way to foster innate teamwork that will result in consistent productivity and sharpen expertise. Negativity breeds toxicity. Always stay positive and focus on the betterment of the organization.
