We’ve all experienced the annoying coworker….

‘The topper’ – no matter what the discussion, this person has to have the best, be the best, own the best…it is the person that tries to top all conversation; they have the best kids, the most talented spouse, but always theirs is smarter, cuter, better.

It may be that they really are that insecure.

‘The whiner’ – they bounce around from one cubicle to another passing their whiny message - complaining about A to Z, this person feeds on feeling miserable.

So sad, they really just want a bit of attention… this may of worked with their mother but don’t feed the whiner.

‘The look’ – no words for this co-worker; they just let ‘noise’ be their way of getting on your nerves; it may be throwing around items on their desk;  or the death look you get when you ask for their help…

So sad, they are having a moment when they’d rather work ALL BY THEMSELVES likely they’ll eventually get this opportunity.

‘Not a clue’ – They may not have a clue of where they are stepping… this person may have of missed a dose of common emotional sense…their makeup may not ever have them understanding the social interactions and rules of the office.

So sad, they wouldn’t last long on Survivor.

Ways to deal with it:

Don’t encourage them by asking questions, don’t invite them to ‘hang around’,  don’t lead them on that you are interested.

Instead try being honest;   “sounds like you’re going to whine…and Sue, this is a no whining zone”.   Or  “Sue,  I’m sure your kids are wonderful – but I really need to focus on my work”.

You’ll never change who they are; but you can decide how much time and energy you’re going to give them.

Lead your life in the direction you want to go.  Be mindful of letting others drag you down.