It’s important to realize that you are eventually going to end up with someone on your team that you don’t really like. I mean someone who adds value to your work and team but there’s something about their personality that just rubs you the wrong way. This is when you’re going to have make some adjustments so your team can continue to function at a high level.
- First, identify what is YOUR problem?
While you can’t change a staff member’s personality, mannerisms, or modus operandi you can choose to change your attitude and how you interact with them. If you don’t it is only a matter of time before it becomes apparent to them or the rest of your team.
- You don’t have to be personal friends with all of your staff.
There is a natural expectation of separation between work life and personal life in the business world. The smaller the staff the fuzzier it gets. Be sure you manage expectations and establish healthy boundaries when bringing new people on board.
- Be professional and courteous with them.
Remember to be professional and treat them how you would want to be treated. Take a genuine interest in them and margin time for them. Make a conscious effort to engage them in conversation about life outside of the organization.
- Knock out a big project shoulder to shoulder.
Working side-by-side may allow you both to achieve something great. And taking on something particularly difficult together can have an even greater effect. This can be, however, as pressure may also further exacerbate the problem.
- Don’t make them an inside joke.
If this person has a quirk, mannerism, habit, etc. that is bothersome or downright annoying do not share it with other employees. Just because it’s funny doesn’t mean you have to share it. It is not funny and will ultimately undermine your leadership with your team.
- Focus on their value to the team.
At the end of the day, you want to keep value around so focus on what makes them so valuable to the team