Three Tips on How to Handle Toxic Co-workers

If you work 40-plus hours a week,

... you're more likely to spend more time with your co-workers than your loved ones. That's why co-workers can make or break a job. A great team member can make the worst job bearable, but the annoying one can make going to the best workplaces awful.

It's safe to say that every workplace has employees who are tough to work with, says Jody Foster, psychiatrist and co-author of “The Schmuck in My Office: How to Deal Effectively With Difficult People at Work.” Whether we're dealing with issues directly related to work or bringing problems at home to work, when there's constant interaction between people, we can't always keep things civilized, despite our best intentions.

Here's how to keep the peace – and your sanity – in the workplace when dealing with toxic co-workers:

1. Adjust

• The best approach is to give the appearance that you value their dedication. For example, when working on a project together, overstate your commitment to the task at hand. Also, don't bother arguing about tiny details with them, says Foster. You likely won't win.

2. Avoid impulsive reactions

• People usually respond in an impulsive way when they are dealing an irritating co-worker, such as involving the entire office or openly disgracing the associate.
• Strategies, such as confronting individuals through another associate and using shame and animosity most frequently bring any sort of resolution.

3. Find a common ground with your co-worker

• You should attempt to discover a common interest with that individual if you are continuously butting heads with a particular colleague. Try to discover at least one thing you can talk about – even if it's just the dislike of the break room coffee. Simple things like that will make it more tolerable to work together and maybe then, when you feel it's the right time, confront them and talk to them regarding the issue.

You might believe the co-worker who is constantly annoying you is doing it on purpose, but they're unlikely to be conscious of their effect on you. It's up to you at the end of the day to remain focused on what you need to achieve and have a favorable attitude at work.