Emotions are always contagious. Consequently, negatives feeling and attitudes usually spread fast. Yet, there is always be at least one co-worker who constantly complains. In the end, it affects our workplace environment and productivity. To help you avoid that, here is the list of 3 ways to handle always-complaining co-workers.
1. Find the pattern
If you work closely with this constantly complaining co-workers, you have to try finding the source of the problems. There should be a cause for your co-workers to always complaining.
The cause can range from inadequacy, loneliness, fear, to fatigue. Besides, try to also find the pattern of times. Find if it happens at certain time or it just happens randomly.
Read also: How to Deal with Toxic Employees in Your Business
Sometimes, when someone is fearful of something, they turn to complain as the coping method. Therefore, finding the root of the problems and helping to decrease the fear may blunt the complaining
2. Withdraw attention
A complainer loves audiences. Thus, if you stop giving them a room, they will go somewhere else. In other words, allowing them to vent, reinforces the problem.
Luckily, it happens at works. Your work can be an escape solution. A simple ‘I know it is frustrating, but I need to finish my work.’ may help.
At the other hand, joining the complaining can be tempting. However, that will only add fuel to the fire, once you do it.
Read also: Coworking Builds a Strong Workspace Community
3. Set Boundaries
If you meet the complainer frequently, you have to set clear limits. Let the person know that you have limited time. Besides, you also need to structure the interaction as much as possible.
Another way to stop a complainer is by explaining that you are changing approach to work situations. Declare that you are going to stop complaining about things. Also, explain to them that complaining only drags you down.
Now, try to do these ways to handle always-complaining co-workers. I wish you get away from them.
