Have a co-worker who likes to order and take over your work, as if he or she belittles your ability to get it done on your own? If so, trust me, you're not the only worker who feels upset or uncomfortable because of this situation. In fact, the best way to deal with such a person is to take control and set clear boundaries. Also, change the way you interact with him, and there's nothing wrong with communicating your complaints to him. If the situation gets too complicated, don't hesitate to ask the more authority figures in the office for help!
Step
Method 1 of 3: Responding to His Behavior
Step 1. Stay calm
No matter how much frustration and anger comes when someone tries to take over your job or order you into the office, try to contain it. If annoyance starts to appear, do your best to control it! Don't say or do things that you will later regret or that can make you look stupid in front of others.
If you need time to cool off, get out of the room immediately to take a deep breath. Come back only when you're completely ready to work things out with a cool head
Step 2. Try to stay professional
Don't take his words or actions personally. Most likely, his behavior is not directly related to you. In other words, he may just want to help get your work done or may be perceived as having an important role by his colleagues. This means that his behavior is most likely not a personal attack on your character. So try your best not to take it personally!
Remind yourself that everything that happens is work-related and should be handled professionally, not emotionally
Step 3. Improve your perspective
Try to understand the roots of the behavior. For example, it's possible that the person has worked on a similar project and has a different approach to yours. If you are a new employee, it never hurts to take the time to get to know the work ethic of all colleagues. Remember, some people will immediately feel tense if a coworker looks like he can impress his boss through a positive performance. Whatever situation you're in, try to dive into it from a better perspective.
- There are also some people who do not like change. In other words, coworkers may be bossy around you because they are uncomfortable with the changes.
- If possible, try to communicate the problem to your other coworkers. Were they treated the same way by that person? Or, is the behavior specifically directed at you?
Step 4. Ignore the behavior
Sometimes, ignoring someone's behavior is the best way to get him to stop acting like that. If your coworker's bad habits only show up at certain times, like when you take over the job he usually does, but ignore you at other times, it's best to ignore him and his bossy behavior at certain times. If the behavioral impact is minimal, there is no need to respond.
Ask yourself, "Can I live with that kind of behavior?"
Method 2 of 3: Interacting with Coworkers
Step 1. Validate their words
Sometimes, such people just want to be heard. Therefore, try to validate his words and “advice” without seeming annoyed or angry. When he speaks, look him in the eye and listen carefully to his words. Don't interrupt! Allow him to make his point, then respond to show that you are listening to what he has to say. Without talking too much or arguing over the words, show that you have listened.
For example, you might say, "I heard you said you wanted to use a different material, didn't you?" or “Okay, thanks for the input.”
Step 2. State your complaint
If a coworker continues to be inappropriate at work, there's nothing wrong with having a confrontation. In a calm and professional tone, try to get your point across in short, straightforward sentences. Don't be too dramatic and show your politeness.
For example, you might say, "I know you'd prefer it that way, but this is my project."
Step 3. Express your feelings
Explain the effect his behavior has on you using “I” instead of blaming him. In particular, emphasize that he should stop the behavior.
For example, try saying, "I find it annoying that you keep taking over this job." Or you could also say, "You don't seem confident that I'll be able to do this well without anyone's help."
Step 4. Establish clear boundaries
Try to always be consistent and firm in stating your boundaries in the office. If someone is constantly bossing you around, provide a consistent response to let them know that without their comments, you'll still be fine. Emphasize your wants and needs so he knows the boundaries he shouldn't cross.
- For example, you could say, "Sorry, I've decided to use this method" or, "Thanks, but I can fix this problem."
- If you want to be more direct, you can say, “I heard you want to help with this project? Thanks, but your help is not needed. Please respect my work and let me finish this alone.”
Step 5. Be a role model
If someone is constantly commenting on your work, try taking a different approach to discussing their work. In other words, interact with him the way you want him to approach him, and focus on providing alternatives instead of commanding him. If you want to change bossy behavior in coworkers, be the colleague who has that behavior first!
For example, you might ask, “Need an opinion?” or, "Is there anything I can help you with?" In addition, you can also ask, “I don't want to cross boundaries. Do you think you mind if I make a comment on this?”
Method 3 of 3: Making Changes at Work
Step 1. Define your role
Define the scope of your work and who is involved in it. The trick, try to schedule a meeting agenda with your manager or boss, then review the topic again in the meeting. In particular, define the scope of your work clearly so that there is no misunderstanding of everyone's role in it.
- By doing so, you can also clear up any misunderstandings that occur by talking to the coworker in question. For example, you might say, "This part is my responsibility, not yours."
- Also hold meetings with members of your division, then review each person's responsibilities. By doing so, each party will understand his responsibilities and the responsibilities of others in his division more clearly.
Step 2. Be vocal in meetings
To the boss or manager on duty, try asking for time to discuss your work in meetings. At that moment, you can present the various changes that have been made to all colleagues so that they receive the latest information about the project you are working on. Then, give them time to understand your presentation material and ask questions.
Present your work with confidence. If a coworker tries to interrupt your presentation, try saying, "You can ask questions or leave comments after the presentation is over."
Step 3. Talk to your manager or boss
If all the methods you've tried don't work, try raising a complaint with a higher authority figure in the office. To the person, explain the situation that occurred and, most importantly, the effect it had on your performance. Then, ask his advice on the most appropriate way to move on with life. If necessary, ask for his help to carry out the necessary interventions.
Try saying, “I need your help. Honestly, there are people who are constantly trying to take over my job and I don't know what to do about it. Do you have any suggestions that I can apply?”
Tips
- Coworkers may not be aware of the impact his behavior has on those around him, and he may also have made the same mistake with others before.
- Consider factors such as office politics and company culture before submitting your complaint.
