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No respect

Dr. Mac,

I’m kind and easy to get along with and I feel that my coworkers don’t respect me. Coworkers that don’t even rich my knees are talking to me like a drunk man is talking to a waitress. I also suspect that they might be gossiping about me when I am not around (because I’m usually working while they’re wasting time). How can I gain respect and not allow their behavior to affect me?

-Leonida

Hi Leonida. Thanks for writing and sharing your situation.

I need some additional information to help me better understand your situation:

1. What exactly are your coworkers doing that gives you the impression that you are not being respected?
2. Are all coworkers treating you with no respect or just some of them?
3. Explain to me what you meant by, “Coworkers that don’t even rich my knees…” I’m having trouble following that statement.
4. Are you contributing to the problem in any way? If I were to talk with your coworkers, would they have any complaints about you?

Leonida, in order to give you the best advice, it would be helpful to hear your responses to the questions above. With that said, let me take a shot at what to do about changing your relationships with your coworkers.

First, the easiest way to get away from pack behavior (where your coworkers collectively are treating you with disrespect) is by forming unique, individual relationships with each coworker. Do this by:
* Taking a personal interest in each coworker.
* Going out of your way to help anyone that needs help.
* Thanking coworkers when they help you.
* Chit-chating a little more, i.e., “how was your weekend?”
* Sharing a little more about yourself with others.
* Avoiding saying negative things about another coworker behind their back.
* Addressing any problems or concerns that others might have that involve you.
* Offering suggestions and asking for suggestions on how to work more effectively together.

The point is, actively engage in your work relationships instead if disengaging.

Second, talk with your supervisor about this and seek out his/her advice. Oftentimes coworkers go to the supervisor to complain about another employee. Ask your supervisor if he/she has heard any feedback about your from your coworkers or if he/she has some direct feedback for you about the work you do and how well you work with others.

Leonida, forming individual relationships and seeking out advice and feedback from your supervisor are steps I’d recommend either way, regardless how you would answer my initial questions. In December, I’ll be co-hosting the Ask Dr. Mac talk radio show on www.latalkradio.com, an internet radio station. We’ll be taking callers who want advice and council on workplace issues. Consider calling in to the show if you have more questions. Hope this helps a little.

-Dr. Mac


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