Coworker Horror Story

We’re sure you’ve had the pleasure of sitting next to the guy who clips his toenails, or the “vegetarian” who only brings fish for lunch.

Everyone has a coworker horror story.

But, have you ever thought, maybe, you’re that person in the office to someone, too?

“You might feel like people are staring at you or talking about you. Coworkers leave the room when you arrive, or you’re not invited to lunches or parties,” says Deborah Brown-Volkman, Career Coach and President of Surpass Your Dreams, Inc.

“People do their best to limit interactions with you.”

Good, healthy work relationships are important to career growth, network development and overall experience.

Gallup research shows close friendships at work boost employee satisfaction by nearly 50 percent.

These individuals are also 88 percent more likely to be satisfied with their lives.

Volkman has found that talking too loud while on the phone, talking incessantly, being disorganized and asking the same questions repeatedly to be the most problematic behaviors for coworkers.

“When I point annoying behaviors out to clients, they know they have them.” says Volkman.

Much of it is habitual and oftentimes not thought of by the offender as a noticeable problem.

She recommends identifying the offending behaviors and making a conscious decision to change them.

“Try reading a book or taking a class to help fix it; learn new skills,” says Volkman.

And if you’re the one who is annoyed – you can fix that too.

One of Volkman’s clients had a coworker coming in her office to talk, even when she was obviously busy. Finally, she said, “I know you want to talk, but we can’t always do that. Can we set up a time or a signal so I can let you know it’s not a good time?”

The coworker agreed, and honest, affirming communication solved their problem instantly.

Bonus PINK Link: Don’t Say This at Work.

Do you have a coworker horror story?

By Sarah Grace Alexander

“The truth will set you free. But first, it will piss you off.” Gloria Steinem