Download ArticleDownload ArticleThis article was co-authored by Jeffrey Fermin and by How.com.vn staff writer, Hannah Madden. Jeffrey Fermin is a Performance Marketing Manager based in Miami, Florida, who currently works for AllVoices. He’s also the Founder of a full-service marketing company called New Theory. With over 10 years of experience, he specializes in digital marketing and content creation. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Education from Florida International University. Jeffrey has won a Microsoft Octas Innovation Award and is a TechCrunch Disrupt Runner-Up.
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Do you ever feel like you have two bosses? There’s your actual boss, and then there’s a coworker who acts like they’re your boss. Getting told what to do is frustrating enough, but it’s even harder to deal with when it comes from a peer and not someone in charge. Fortunately, there are ways you can deal with your coworker without making a huge scene. Read this article for a comprehensive list of tips for dealing with a bossy coworker that you can use today.
Steps
Expert Q&A
- QuestionHow do you politely tell a coworker to back off?
Jeffrey FerminJeffrey Fermin is a Performance Marketing Manager based in Miami, Florida, who currently works for AllVoices. He’s also the Founder of a full-service marketing company called New Theory. With over 10 years of experience, he specializes in digital marketing and content creation. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Education from Florida International University. Jeffrey has won a Microsoft Octas Innovation Award and is a TechCrunch Disrupt Runner-Up.
Marketing Manager, AllVoicesBe respectful while also clarifying your expectations. While addressing them with courtesy and politeness, let your bossy coworker know what your expectations are if they ask too much of you. Establishing boundaries can help you avoid disputes down the line, which can help you maintain a productive working relationship. - QuestionHow do you deal with a coworker who disrespects you?Jeffrey FerminJeffrey Fermin is a Performance Marketing Manager based in Miami, Florida, who currently works for AllVoices. He’s also the Founder of a full-service marketing company called New Theory. With over 10 years of experience, he specializes in digital marketing and content creation. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Education from Florida International University. Jeffrey has won a Microsoft Octas Innovation Award and is a TechCrunch Disrupt Runner-Up.
Marketing Manager, AllVoicesDon't be afraid to take breaks throughout the day so that you can clear your head and regain focus on what needs to be done. Taking a step back from the situation can help keep your emotions in check and enable you to work more productively. If all else fails, it may be necessary to seek help from a supervisor or other higher-up who can mediate any disputes between you and your bossy coworker.
Video
Tips
- Think about what is and isn't worth addressing with your co-worker beforehand. This doesn't mean you have to avoid having a conversation with them—just be really intentional in thinking about how the conversation will go down and if you're okay with the possible aftermath.[8]Thanks
Expert Interview
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References
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-deal-with-a-control-freak/
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-deal-with-a-control-freak/
- ↑ https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/employee-relations/pages/four-ways-to-deal-with-a-toxic-co-worker.aspx
- ↑ https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/employee-relations/pages/four-ways-to-deal-with-a-toxic-co-worker.aspx
- ↑ https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/employee-relations/pages/four-ways-to-deal-with-a-toxic-co-worker.aspx
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/emotional-intelligence-at-work.htm
- ↑ https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/employee-relations/pages/four-ways-to-deal-with-a-toxic-co-worker.aspx
- ↑ https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/2021/02/10-tips-for-handling-difficult-conversations-at-work.html
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