How to Deal With Drama at Work With Your Co-Workers
Coworkers, superiors and even subordinates can all be sources of drama in the workplace, which at best can be a distraction and at worst create a lot of unwanted conflict between coworkers. In fact, poor interpersonal relationships at work are a source of stress. Drama with coworkers won't just go away on its own, so deal with it directly rather than trying to ignore it.
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Instructions
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Evaluate the issue that the drama involves. Ask yourself if the emotions wrapped up in it are logically warranted given the size of the conflict. Write down the people most directly involved in the conflict, and attempt to trace back to where it began. Keep track of any information or evidence of unprofessional behavior.
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Refrain from gossip with your coworkers. Tell them they should deal with the person directly instead of complaining about it to you.
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Take a break from the coworkers surrounding the drama. Often distance can help you put everything in perspective and will dissolve some of the emotions involved in the conflict.
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Respond to the coworkers involved in the drama in a direct, calm and professional manner. Do this one on one or, at most, in a small group. Be transparent, expressing your issues in an honest way. Not only will this help you deal with the drama, but it will also set an example for future behavior.
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Take responsibility for your actions, express your willingness to help alleviate the situation and apologize for any problems you may have caused. This will, at the very least, increase coworkers' awareness, which is key to dispelling drama.
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Approach your superiors regarding dramatic behavior only as a last resort after you've exhausted all other avenues. When listing your grievance, aim to offer objective information rather than your interpretation of it. Provide any official records or evidence of coworkers' actions.
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References
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