Despite the fact that there is no "I" in a team, there are a wide range of personalities and relating styles as well as commitment levels and dynamics. There's a good chance someone else has a few of the things you don't like. It's possible that you don't like all of your coworkers, but you can still have a productive and satisfying working relationship with them.
Here are some tips to help you overcome your differences with a coworker and build a positive working relationship.
Escape from your place of employment. Spend some time outside of the office with your coworkers and avoid bringing up work-related topics of conversation. Walls come down, moods shift, and you may get to know your coworker in a new way. Get to know them as a person and see if there is anything in common. Your interests may overlap, for example, the same Netflix shows appeal to you. Reaching out to them, even if it's uncomfortable, is all it takes to de-escalate tension and alter the dynamic with them in the workplace.
Say you're sorry and mean it when you do so. If you and this coworker have gotten into an argument or exchanged snarky remarks, you should put your pride aside and apologise, even if your coworker was at fault. Pride can sabotage a relationship that could have been positive and productive. You may not get an apology back, but you don't have to bear the entire burden of responsibility. However, you have the option of owning up to your mistake and apologizing for it. If you don't know why your coworker is upset with you, ask and apologize for the misunderstanding.
Respectfully engage in a difficult conversation. It is possible to confront a coworker in a polite manner about their behavior. Avoiding difficult conversations with your coworker won't help your working relationship improve. It could lead to an increase in anger, which could lead to destructive behavior. Talk to your coworker if you've been hurt or disrespected. If meeting with a manager or representative one-on-one isn't your cup of tea, request their presence.
Don't gossip or vent. Do not bring up issues with a coworker in front of others in the office. In spite of your desire to sympathize, you should avoid doing so because it can lead to further deterioration of your relationship and a tarnished reputation. Make an appointment with someone outside your workplace who isn't familiar with your coworkers if you need to vent about a stressful situation. Disciplinary action may be warranted if their conduct is unacceptable.
Consider things from a new angle. Rather than focusing on their flaws, try to find their unique assets. Take a moment to think about how you might be perceived by those you care about. A new perspective on your partner may be just what your relationship needs when you see them as an equal, with flaws just like you.
Be in the now. Don't worry about what you've done in the past; instead, focus on how you can make the most of this moment. Get better at listening to your coworkers. In order to experience your coworker in a positive light, you need to let go of some of the baggage that has been keeping you from doing so.
Let me know if you need anything. Find out if they have any projects they need help with or if there is any other way you can help. Asking for their input or advice on a project is another option if this isn't an option.
Recognize their efforts. Complimenting someone on a job well done will go a long way toward building trust and calming nerves. The best way to show your appreciation for someone's work is to publicly thank them.
Be a hard worker. You and your partner will not be able to transform your relationship overnight, especially if there is already tension between you. Keep your distance and don't try to win them over by being overly friendly. Slowly but persistently work on changing your relationship.
Authenticity is the best policy. There's no point in employing any of these strategies if you're not genuinely interested in establishing a connection with the other person. Let go of everything you've learned about your coworker and start anew. You can improve your working relationship with your coworker by letting go of negative feelings and experiences from the past.
