How to Deal With a Colleague Who Keeps Challenging Your Views
Rather than allow a colleague who consistently challenges your views to cause you stress and frustration, find effective ways to deal with his bad behavior. Even though you may feel personally attacked by his argumentative nature, keep your emotions in check. The worst thing you can do is allow yourself to sink to his level. By demonstrating patience and perseverance in your interactions with your colleague, you can subtly discourage his unprofessional behavior.
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Instructions
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Be objective. Even if your colleague uses language that you find offensive, listen to the gist of what he has to say and consider his views. If you separate the negative language from his message, you can understand what he's trying to say without becoming upset by the way he chooses to express it.
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Restate your views in a polite, calm and professional manner. "I see your point, but I firmly believe ..." Never falter on your own views. Acknowledge your colleague's right to have his own views, but politely make sure he understands your view point.
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Agree to disagree. "I appreciate your point of view, but I think we will have to agree to disagree on this issue." This demonstrates that you don't have any resentment toward your colleague.
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Walk away politely. If your colleague continues to challenge your views after you've made your position clear and acknowledged his right to his own opinion, leave. "I need to get back to work, excuse me." If you stay, you may find yourself pulled into an argument.
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Speak with your colleague privately or send him an email if he fails to understand that you don't want to be constantly challenged. Acknowledge that you and he seem to have very different views on a number of issues. Tell him that you respect his right to his own views and you expect the same courtesy. Tell him that you're willing to answer questions about your views, but you do not appreciate being constantly challenged.
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Tips & Warnings
Find subtle ways to avoid interaction with the colleague. Avoid taking a break at the same time as he does. Sit as far away as possible from him during meetings or work lunches. Be cordial if you meet him in a hallway, but keep walking.
Even if your colleague tries to draw you into an argument, avoid it. In a professional setting, you should exhibit professional behavior. Exhibiting unprofessional behavior, such as trading insults, won't benefit you in any way. In fact, it may encourage your colleague to continue his argumentative behavior.
