Send to KindleYou can recognize the resentful co-worker from a mile away. Their negativity is all pervasive and is like a wall between them and others. Any attempts to reach out and build a bridge is met with hostility and conflict escalates. Such people don’t need coaching, they need counseling. From a therapist.
Resentment is caused by inflexibility, a tendency to “live in the past,” and a lack of appreciation of the interdependence in the workplace. Resentful co-workers will hold a grudge long after the event has passed. They tend to be neurotic in interactions. Such people need help, and they need it fast.
First look in the mirror. Are you resentful? If yes, that is where you need to start. Fix your resentment and show your co-workers how it is done. It is not necessary to be a saint in the workplace. If you need to escalate conflict do so strategically and use methods sanctioned by HR.
