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Frustrating Co-workers?

How did you read that title? You have frustrating co-workers, or that you frustrate your co-workers?

Usually the reality is a little of both and the one who says, “They will just have to suck it up and learn to put up with me” is the boss. This article is aimed at the person who frustrates those he or she works with. Do you have to do all the changing or can you expect others to adjust?
 
If you are just interested in clarifying the hierarchy then check out your position and see if you are higher up the food chain – Yes? Then do as you please. If you are interested in increasing your and others’ productivity and building a resilient company or organization then, yes, you are responsible for leading the change no matter what your hierarchical title.
 
But rather than changing your approach to tasks and projects, sometimes all it takes is a little educating and open communication to establish cooperative systems that enhance work partnerships. Try sharing with co-workers how you work best – last minute pushes? Creative makeovers under deadline? Dealing with issues as they arise?
 
How do your co-workers work best? Long-range plans? Always ready ahead of deadlines? Creating systems to deal with repeating tasks? Instead of having a blame-and-point session to establish the “correct” approach, try negotiating tasks so that they are assigned to the person with the strength in that area.
 
We all function under a certain pressure to be fully capable in all things. Research shows that that approach doesn’t lead to notable successes. More on this in another article, but I encourage you to start delegating tasks according to strengths and relax about how it gets done – as long as it does get done.
 
Having trouble getting things done on time? Contact Jay for a comprehensive assessment of your needs and goals.