There’s something to be said about small to medium sized businesses: They’re nimble, their employees are often multi skilled and cross trained and they work together well…. until they don’t. So what happens when you’ve got an employee clash on the work front? Here at Wolfgang, the Wolfpack is quite tight knit, that said, I recently experienced the outcome of a personality clash in the workforce. Worse yet, I was part of it. Here are three tips that I found worked well when mending a professional relationship.

1. Don’t Take Anything Too Personally
I am admittedly sensitive, but that was an issue I managed from the get go. I had to have the self realization that no matter whether I felt my coworker was personally attacking me, he wasn’t. He simply has an opinionated, brash personality type which is nothing to shame. I had to understand that my coworker communicated differently than I.

2. Listen First, Speak After
I consider myself pretty good at this, however, my emotions can get the better of me. What I find best when dealing with uncomfortable situations is always to listen attentively to the other person and do not interrupt. I actively try to listen first, ask questions to seek understanding and then work to resolve the situation.

3. Involve The Individual
My issue with my co-worker was best resolved when I actively engaged with him. If I had a new idea I would involve him, get his buy in and hear his suggestions. I also chose to see the best of his personality and focus on our similarities. I also went the extra mile to pick him up a healthy breakfast one morning when I knew he was under-rested, hungry and burning out.

Adversity happens in our personal and professional lives. It’s how we choose to deal with it that matters most. What are your thoughts? Have you ever experienced a challenging workplace relationship? How did you deal with it?

About the Author: Deana Srdic

Deana Srdic is the Marketing Manager for Wolfgang Commercial Painters. Deana plans and implements Wolfgang’s annual marketing strategy, manages the website, facilitates the Wolfpack’s digital strategy and plans client events. Deana graduated from Camosun College with a degree in Marketing Communications Management and Leadership, an additional general Business diploma and Management certificate. Deana spends her free time working on her personal blog, lifting weights and actively participating in personal growth coaching. She’s a city girl with a passion for consistency.

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