Most people have been in the position of working with a difficult person. These personality types can annoy, irritate, or frustrate us to no end. Sometimes, a co-worker can seem to push every button we have. While there is no magic solution to solve the problem of working with a difficult person, there are a few things you can do to make your working time together flow more smoothly. Take a look at these top suggestions.

Try to Understand Their Point of View

Sometimes, a person can have good intentions but lacks the tact or social skills to properly express what they feel. If we know that someone doesn’t mean to be abrasive, it helps us to be more patient with their behavior. For example, perhaps someone constantly offers you unwanted business advice, or repeatedly makes suggestions for how your work can improve. This individual might simply be trying to help you out.

Establish Boundaries

If someone is bothering you, don’t be shy about stating how you feel. Letting the person know that you would rather not be disturbed while you’re working, that you don’t enjoy office pranks, or that you’d simply like to be left alone are all things you should feel free to communicate. Boundaries are important, and if your co-worker is still bothering you after you have clearly stated your dislike or discomfort, it’s probably time to speak with a supervisor.

Create Distance

Make space–literally. Find a way to keep distance between yourself and your coworker, even if it means asking your manager for a new seating arrangement. Time your breaks, if possible, so that you and your co-worker aren’t constantly bumping into each other. A little distance can go a long way. Also, you can always ask a friend for business advice as it pertains to your situation.

Make a Formal Complaint

If you feel threatened, harassed, or unsafe in any way, speak to your manager at once. There is a difference between being annoyed and being uncomfortable within the workspace, and the latter situation requires immediate attention. You deserve to feel safe and confident at work–the office is no place for conflict. 

It can be difficult to work with a person (or persons) day in and day out only to feel continually frustrated, but always try for a peaceful resolution. Be sure to speak with a supervisor or with human resources when in doubt about how to handle something.