5 Deadly Habits You MUST Drop To Get Along With Your Coworkers

By Elizabeth Benu

For the past 4 months Mary Ouma has had trouble getting along with her colleagues at work. It is reflecting poorly on her performance and she fears that she may lose her job in the long run. If you fall in the same category as Mary read on.

A typical Kenyan will spend an average of about 8 hours at work and having the best working relationship with everyone is recommended. Our habits can have a significant impact on how we perform and how our colleagues perceive us.

Wilfrida Macharia, a HR Assistant at Profiles International Limited, lists the following habits and gives the solutions to them.

1. You resist any change

Change in this case includes new ideas or procedures. Whether you have been doing something for the past 3 years in your company, it doesn’t mean you will be doing it forever. If you are always opposing ideas from fellow colleagues and bringing nothing to the table then it’s time to change.

“If you do not like the new ideas, express your concerns and have alternatives that you think could work as well, or better,” Ms. Macharia says.

2. Negativity

No one wishes to be judged or criticized in any way by anyone. So if you are that colleague who is always criticizing and not giving a compliment that is why you are being avoided.

“The solution to this is to focus on the positive things and avoid giving unwelcomed opinions on a personal issue. Also focus on giving constructive feedback,” she counsels.

3. You lack professionalism

Lack of professionalism includes so many things such as: gossiping, sharing too much personal information, not observing personal hygiene, eating with your mouth open, just to mention a few.

“Cultivate positive habits such as remaining discreet about anything that concerns your colleague or if you have a problem with another employee, keep it between the two of you,” she suggests.

4. Not sharing knowledge

Sharing work knowledge is important because it creates a sense of belonging and people will be more inclined to work with you. On the other hand if you are reluctant to share people disconnect from your selfish nature.

“Share your knowledge since it is one of the things that promote team spirit,” she advices.

5. Always taking things personally

“Not everything your coworker says should be taken personal. If they gave a funny example in a meeting with you it was just an example and you got offended, take it as it is; an example,” she explains.

“The intent of such is usually for growth and not to demean or hurt you. Work on accepting that it is constructive,” she
advices.

6. You shout commands to everyone.

“Even if you have a title attached to your name it does not mean you should order people around. Belittling people creates negative energy. Nobody wants to be associated with the lady/ gent who is always shouting,” she illustrates.

“Find ways of delegating duties without shouting. This will make you more pleasant to your colleagues,” she suggests.

Her parting shot:
“The best way to break a habit is to drop it. It is easier to drop a bad habit today than tomorrow,” Ms. Macharia concludes.

For any queries concerning the workplace, contact Elizabeth at elizabeth@www.careerpointkenya.co.ke

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