Part II: Trouble brewing working with a colleague
Dear Office-Politics,
It is important to the harmony of the work place in our department to work in collaboration with other assistants within the department. One of my colleagues confided in me that they are having difficulty working with another colleague. How should I handle this situation?
Team-worker
OFFICE-POLITICS REPLY BY PETER GARBER
Dear Team-worker
Some people have trouble dealing with interpersonal conflicts and need help in this area. I suspect that your colleague is having this problem.
I also think that this person told you about this situation in hopes that you will help him or her with this problem. Perhaps ask your colleague more about this situation and suggest possible ways that he/she could deal more effectively with this other person.
Sometimes, it is easier for someone else outside of the immediate situation to see what needs to be done to resolve interpersonal problems at work. An alternative might be to suggest that your colleague seek advice from your Human Resource Department or some other qualified resource available.
Thanks for writing to Office-Politics.
Regards,
Peter Garber, Author
Peter R. Garber has worked as an HR professional for over 25 years and is the author of many business books including: Winning the Rat Race at Work and 100 Ways to Get on the Wrong Side of your Boss.
