10 types of colleagues and how to deal with them

What are the different types of colleagues you can run into at work, and more importantly, how do you deal with them?

Having worked in various corporates & start-ups for several years, I learnt that to achieve success with your projects, work and career, it is crucial that you get along with as many of your team members as possible.

The following article lists 10 different types of colleagues and how to deal with them.

1.   The Mentor

How to recognize them: A Mentor loves sharing his expertise and knowledge. Additionally, he or she enjoys providing you with support and a broader perspective on the way of working in your organization. This colleague only wants the best for you, thus don't be afraid to ask for mentorship to progress in your career.

How to deal with them: Be a good listener and open to any advice this colleague has for you. Regardless of the stage you are in your career, having a good Mentor is always an asset and a great source of knowledge.

2. The Winner

How to recognize them: Winners are colleagues your boss will call if something needs to be done fast and right. A winner can be described as the ideal employee and the go-to person for crucial projects or important tasks. A winner has a long list of achievements, stays calm and organized in every situation and is capable of being in charge.

How to deal with them: Show enough appreciation to this type of colleague. Besides, don't forget to ask yourself: "What can I learn from him or her to perform even better"?

3.  The Quiet Hero

How to recognize them: Quiet heroes will do their very best each day, yet they are colleagues that do their job without really taking credit for it. He simply prefers keeping a low profile, but is nevertheless a really important part of your team. This person is often underestimated, but essential.

How to deal with them: Let them know that their achievements are noticed and recognize them for their good work, without making too much of a fuss about it. Try pulling them out of their comfort zone by involving them in opportunities to lead and to take on more responsibility.

4.   The Complainer

How to recognize them: If the organization made a profit out of complaining, the Complainer would be an asset. It may be a dismal co-worker or complaining boss, but into most professional lives a few negative people will fall. Regardless, who the Complainer is, it is rarely a good thing to be around a colleague who grumbles all the time.

How to deal with them: Complaining can be the result of frustration, stress or unhappiness at work. Don't get influenced by this colleague's negativity. If the Complainer is part of your team, try to understand the reasons behind the complaints and find a solution for his unhappiness. Also, try to proactively deflect the conversation into a more positive subject.

5.   The Slacker

How to recognize them: The Slacker can be described as a 'fata morgana'. He constantly looks busy and booking a meeting with him needs to happen at least 4 weeks in advance. However, he actually passes his responsibilities onto others, while taking credit for them.

How to deal with them: In case you or your team are not work wise linked to this colleague, it is best for you to ignore him. If you or your team collaborate with this colleague, ensure to keep an eye on him and if needed flag this behaviour. In case of managing a Slacker, closely monitor his performance and make sure to provide quantitative KPI's and clear, measurable goals for him to achieve.

6.   The Veteran

How to recognize them: A Veteran has been part of the organization for a long time, Without a doubt, either himself or your colleagues remind you of this fact every so often.

How to deal with them: Got a question about the history or the early stages of your organization? The Veteran is the right person to ask! Make sure to involve this colleague in the daily conversations and decision-making, so that he doesn’t feel left out.

7.   The Comedian

How to recognize them: The Comedian is a master at avoiding tense situations and brings a funny, casual atmosphere to the workplace.

How to deal with them: As long as the Comedian does not offend anyone, feel free to let yourself be entertained by him. In the meantime, make sure to avoid letting these funny moments get in the way of getting actual time sensitive work done.

8.   The Gossiper

How to recognize them: "Have you heard what X said during today's team meeting?", "Did you see what X was wearing today?", "Is X dating Y?" These are a few example questions to which a Gossiper will be happy to give you an answer. Some Gossipers love spreading false rumours, some love sharing juicy stories in the coffee corner.

How to deal with them: Gossipers come in all shapes and sizes and you should keep an eye on them. In case some of their stories reach you, make sure to act wisely by not sharing them with anyone else. Should it occur that certain gossips include you, seek and confront the source of the story.

9.   The Ally

How to recognize them: The Ally is a friend during or after office hours. He or she can be a person who is there for you during difficult times and gives you advice.

How to deal with them: Cherish the friendships you make at work! Be kind, open and try to develop real relationships. An Ally will not only be there for you during difficult times, but also make office life much more enjoyable.

10.   The Newbie

How to recognize them: The Newbie is a graduate or most often a new colleague who recently joined the organization.

How to deal with them: Do you remember your own first awkward day at work? Now is your time to step forward and take the role of a Mentor. Support this person where possible for an easy start at work. Your new colleague will be very grateful for it.

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What is your experience when it comes to working with different personalities and what is your advice with potential personality driven conflicts? Please share your thoughts & tips in the comments below.