How to Deal With Co-Workers Acting Like a Boss
It's difficult enough to deal with co-workers who gossip, back-stab and slack off, but when one of your peers is acting like a boss, calling in sick might seem like the only option. If you're tired of your toxic co-worker ordering you around but you don't want to be labeled a tattletale, there are still things you can do to bring balance back to your workday. The key to getting your colleague off your back is to keep your cool and show him who the real professional is.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Talk to your bossy co-worker in private. Tell him calmly, objectively and respectfully that his behavior is inappropriate and remind him you don't answer to him. Make it clear you won't tolerate the situation and will speak to a higher-up if it continues. Your colleague may not be aware of how he's perceived around the workplace. Even if he didn't mean to be bossy, he might change his ways after you gently put him on the spot.
-
2
Cooperate with your co-worker when you have to but keep contact to a minimum. Communicate only when the job requires it; if he tries to make nice by inviting you to lunch or asks you to meet him for a cocktail at the end of the day, politely decline. Accepting might seem like a friendly way to patch up your conflict, but blurring the professional line between you will complicate matters, and it may even backfire.
-
-
3
Document your communications with a troublesome colleague. Keep emails that illustrate his out-of-line behavior and handwritten memos he leaves on your desk. Keep a written log of each maddening contact you have with him; note the date, time and what occurred. If the situation escalates, you'll need proof to back up your case against him.
-
4
Ask your employer for help. If you're frustrated at work, it's bound to affect your performance, and your supervisor may assume you're simply not pulling your weight. Present your case without whining or blaming, but let your superior know you value your job and want to do it without constant disruption. Once your colleague is called in for a meeting, and a reprimand, things will likely return to business as usual.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Bringing your boss – or the human resources department – into your dispute should be your last resort.
You might be contributing to the issue. If your co-worker is rightfully calling you out for bad work habits, or simply sharing his expertise, you might need to step up your own game instead of focusing on your colleague's behavior.
Don't blow up or create a scene. Complaining behind your co-worker's back and indulging in juvenile retaliation schemes will only hurt your professional reputation.
If your colleague is reprimanded, he might get angry and make things more difficult at work. Remain professional, continue to document his behavior and speak to your boss again if necessary.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images
