Workplace Personalities

• Your office might contain a patchwork quilt of different personality types. Spotlight hogs might attempt to take credit for the work of others, or attempt to monopolize your manager's attention. Free riders might spend their days surfing the Internet and refilling their coffee cup, knowing that other teammates are working hard to shoulder their professional responsibilities. You might be assigned to partner a project with someone who is painfully shy or monosyllabic, making communication difficult. Some workplace personalities are warm and welcoming; coming to work can be a pleasant experience shared with other hard-working, committed and professional co-workers. Other people are natural-born teachers, offering to mentor you in challenging projects or share their expertise.
  
  

Respecting Differences

• Personality differences in the workplace can be professionally challenging, especially when colleagues aren't pulling their weight. Some co-workers might compete with you outright, making you feel on edge or inadequate. No matter what personalities you encounter in the workplace, remember that it's unlikely that people are going to undergo a sudden personality shift. Instead, work to become more compassionate and accepting in order to respect personality differences. Etiquette dictates that it's inappropriate to gossip, condemn or confront other people in the workplace for personality-related flaws. For example, making fun of a co-worker for his prim demeanor and stuffy communication style is unprofessional, unkind and could be considered harassment if reported. Under no circumstances must you tolerate inappropriate behavior. For example, listening to someone's sexual escapades or being told racist or discriminatory jokes isn't a personality problem. It's illegal, and can be safely reported.
  
  

Workplace Etiquette

• Having a handle on basic workplace etiquette can ensure that despite personality differences, you'll avoid offending anyone in the workplace. Don't peer over cubicles; act as if these were traditional walls and ask permission before entering someone's space to start a conversation. If you're eating something strong-smelling for lunch, dine in the cafeteria or dining room so that others can work in peace. Keep confidences, and avoid sharing overly personal information in the workplace. Avoid airing strong opinions about politics, religion, or family matters. Thank others for their contributions to your projects and successes; congratulate others on their own successes.
  
  

Etiquette Breakdowns

• Avoid etiquette breakdowns due to personality clashes by having a private conversation with the person involved, explaining your viewpoint and suggesting that both parties brainstorm for a mutually agreeable solution. Mediation involving a third, neutral party might be helpful. If you ever find yourself in a scenario involving shouting, aggression or other inappropriate behaviors due to personality clashes, discontinue immediately and walk away. Unprofessional interactions with colleagues could result in losing your job, or a lawsuit.