Simple Strategies to Help You Work Well With Others (Even if You Don't Like Them)

You can use these techniques with co-workers, clients, bosses, or employees.

 

 

 

 

Fact: Working with other people is hard. Even when you like them.

And over the years, I've tried different strategies to improve relationships (or, at the very least, prevent myself from freaking out in people's faces).

But then, last year, I started going to therapy to deal with a situation outside the office. And I was surprised to realize that a lot of the advice I was getting could be applied to the workplace, too.

In fact, by using these therapist-approved strategies, I'm able to deal with difficult work situations much better now. So, before you let co-workers drive you up another wall, here are three new things to try.

1. Validate the Person's Feelings Before You Do Anything Else

You know that passive aggressive co-worker who drives you nuts? Dealing with their behavior can be super annoying!

Now, most of us don't need therapy to recognize that we don't have any control over others' moods or behavior. But, instead of getting irritated about it, my therapist taught me a trick that makes that reality way easier to accept. All I have to do is imagine why someone might be acting the way they are, identify how I would feel if I were in their position, and then validate that feeling.

For example, if a client asks me to turn a project in sooner than we'd initially agreed and then gets annoyed when I say no, I'll first try to identify why they might be making this request. Maybe their boss is putting pressure on them. If that were me, I'd be feeling really stressed out. And, I'd be disappointed if my request for an accelerated deadline were turned down. So, I'll tell my client, "I imagine that this is probably disappointing for you."

I know it sounds a little hokey, but this works wonders. By trying to empathize (even if I think the person's wrong) and then validating what they're feeling, I'm able to shift my attitude from frustration to empathy. 

And, the client feels heard, too. Nine times out of 10, they'll calmly reply, "Yes, I do feel disappointed." It's like identifying the feeling takes the hot air out of the situation. I'm then able to reiterate that I can't accommodate an earlier deadline without things escalating. 
 

2. Say What You're Actually Thinking--and Say it Clearly

When I used to find myself in an awkward situation, I'd usually scramble to make things less awkward as quickly as possible. This usually meant bending over backward to make the other person happy, with no regard for my needs or feelings.

Now, I use a simple formula that I learned in therapy to clearly and concisely make my point:

the change I'd like + why the current option isn't working + why my preference is better

For example, I had a client who said she hated my proposal. I'm perfectly fine with constructive feedback, but telling me you hate something doesn't help me at all. So I said, "I'd like us to communicate with each other more respectfully because telling me you hate something doesn't feel constructive. I'd prefer if you provided me with specific feedback about what isn't working for you because that'll help me to to deliver the work product you're looking for."

She immediately apologized and we were able to get on the same page from there.

As I've become more comfortable telling people what does or doesn't work for me, being more assertive has gotten less scary. Even better, it's made my working relationships stronger and more honest. 

3. Set Boundaries

I'm a recovering people pleaser with a serious compulsion to say "No problem!" without even thinking. This usually leads to me feeling stressed and resentful, which isn't good for me (or fair to my co-workers).

Getting comfortable with setting boundaries has made a huge difference. When a client asks me to sit in on a last-minute meeting or my boss wants me to work late, I now pause and consider whether or not it's something I am willing and able to take on. If it's not, I simply say, "I'm sorry, but that doesn't work for me." If it makes, sense, I'll offer up a reason or an alternative solution. But sometimes, no just means no.

I've learned that setting boundaries can also be a proactive exercise. I'll often tell new clients up front that I don't check emails over the weekend or that I need a full 24 hours to respond to new requests. Managing expectations and setting boundaries from the start helps me to avoid annoying or uncomfortable situations in the future. 
 

In no way am I suggesting that you should start saying no to every request from your boss, or setting ridiculous boundaries with your co-workers. These relationships are two-way streets, and you'll sometimes need to bend to accommodate others.

I also understand that not everyone can turn down their manager when she asks them to work late or to avoid email all weekend--everyone's boundaries will be different. But, learning about these strategies has made it way easier for me to navigate difficult and uncomfortable situations, so I'm pretty sure that they'll work for you, too.www.lastdon.org