How to Deal with a Lazy Co-Worker

If you are working on a team project, a lazy coworker can obstruct your progess and make you look bad. You also may end up completing the project yourself without receiving any additional compensation or credit. Here's some tips to deal with the non-performer.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Explain what is happending to people outside of the situation to discover if you are being overly critical. Understand that perfection is unattainable and try to be reasonable about the situation. However, you do not have to put up with lazy c-oworkers if they are indeed failing to assume their responsibilities.

2. Discuss the situation with your co-worker in private. Be direct when you address the problem, but speak respectfully. Stay positive and suggest ways to rectify the issue.

3. Give the person time to resolve the situation. If he apologizes, assume that he will change, but let him know you expect to see results immediately.

4. If the situation doesn't change, inform your co-worker that you will have to talk to your boss or supervisor. Speak calmly and professionally. Do not threaten anyone.

5. Speak with your boss or supervisor if your co-worker is unresponsive. Be prepared to outline examples of your co-worker's poor performance. Don't complain or slander. Dispassionately supply the details.

6. Give your boss or supervisor time to work out the situation with your co-worker. After a period, you may need to have a second conversation with management after, if you don't notice improvement.

Tips & Warnings

• Whenever you talk over the issue with your coworker or supervisors, note the dates in a journal and summarize what you discussed.
• If your coworker gets hostile and argumentative, keep your cool. End the conversation gracefully and assume he will not change his behavior. Take up the issue with management.

[wirelessjen]

on 1/14/2009 It is important to document stuff so you "have proof" that you tried to solve the situation yourself. Proceeding with a positive attitude and patience is best. You don't want to get in trouble for being harsh. Thanks.