Getting along with coworkers at work
Working with colleagues of different temperaments in the office is a common situation. Some people are happy with your success and support you through difficult times, while others may be difficult to adjust to. Sometimes, a co-worker seems very friendly towards you, but some of his actions may make you uncomfortable.
Competition or jealousy?
For example, if your boss praises you in a meeting and then suddenly becomes silent, or presents your ideas in your own name, it may make you wonder whether this is normal competition or a sign of irritation. However, it is difficult to judge whether a coworker is jealous of you based on a single incident. But if certain behaviors occur repeatedly and impact your work, it's important to address them.
What does the research say?
Competition and jealousy in the workplace are related to the behavior of employees. When a person feels that his or her co-worker is outdoing him or getting more recognition, he or she may feel insecure. This situation can lead to negative behavior. However, it is not appropriate to consider every competition as jealousy. Understanding someone's behavior requires paying attention to situations and recurring patterns.
What is social undermining?
Social undermining is behavior that gradually undermines a co-worker's reputation or performance in the workplace. It involves small actions rather than open conflict, the impact of which becomes visible over time.
signs of irritation
5 possible signs of irritation or negative behavior in the office
1. Negligence in giving necessary information
If a coworker repeatedly excludes your name from important emails or hides meeting information from you, it can affect your work.
2. Taking credit for your work
If you worked hard on a project and another colleague got the credit for it in the meeting, then it is a matter of concern.
3. Taunting in the name of joke
Some people may take sarcasm at your achievements. If a person does this repeatedly, it is important to make your boundaries clear.
4. Praise in private, but silence in the meeting
If a coworker praises you in private, but ignores your contributions in meetings, this could be a sign.
5. Presenting your idea in your own name
If a colleague presents your suggestion in his or her own name, it may reduce the recognition of your contribution.
Why is it difficult to recognize such behavior?
Each of these events may seem small or routine. But if similar incidents happen again and again and you mainly have to bear their loss, then it is not right to ignore them.
Ways to deal with such situations in office
- Don't draw conclusions immediately: Don't judge someone's intentions by one incident.
- Keep records of your work: Share important emails, ideas and project updates in writing.
- Talk calmly: Have a frank and professional conversation with a co-worker if the problem repeats.
- Set your boundaries: Politely object to derogatory comments.
- Contact the manager if needed: If the behavior is affecting your work, explain your problem with concrete examples.