— Types of People in Corporate World —
Of the various groups of people in the workplace, a few specific individuals stand out among the rest. As in all corporate workplaces, one of each exists. Try to see if you can recognize these coworkers within your organization and practice the suggestions for how to manage each.
* Talkative Timmy
Timmy doesn’t have to be in the same geographic area of your workspace, but when he wants to chat, he’ll find you. The discussion is usually nonsensical or gossipy, however, the ultimate purpose of their discussion is to take up time so that the workday goes by faster.
These types of coworkers generally mean no harm and they feel that their willingness to chatter all day is a sign of camaraderie. For the most part, they either have no idea how to handle their jobs, or management gives them “things to do” to keep them busy and out of everyone’s hair. If the constant babbling doesn’t get to you, the time lost from your other responsibilities will.
To resolve a situation with this type of person, put up a barrier. Psychologically distance yourself if physical distancing, such as shutting the door, isn’t an option. You can barricade a workspace with bookshelves, plants, and by putting papers and books in any chairs that might be in your office.
During conversations, respond to the conversation with short answers or a pause followed by “hmm.” This will eventually discourage further conversations. You can head off a conversation before it starts by appearing engrossed in an activity or by picking up the phone to pretend that you didn’t know they were there.
* Sammy the Slanderer
Sammy achieves personal fulfillment by discrediting others. His gossipy tidbits about everything from your work habits to your personal life may be twisted versions of the truth or outright lies. His common game is “Bait and Slam,” where he may appear friendly and open, as he hopes you’ll reveal some useful material about yourself that he can use against you.
Sammy will also look for ways to “press your buttons.” He usually wants to find ways where he can catch you improperly performing your work or even becoming what he can classify as “hostile.” In some cases, he will even set you up for failure so that he can bring it to the attention of your boss. In this way, he can start gossip about your work ethic and your attitudes, when in fact you did nothing to provoke such gossip.
* My Pal Peter
Peter is your best friend and is unconditionally open with all the details of his private life. However, he expects you to feel the same and provide him with morsels of your personal life. It doesn’t matter if you’re uncomfortable hearing about the last fight with his wife or what his proctologist said, you’ll hear a lot of information. Peter generally believes that the office is a family where intrusive questions are acceptable.
In all cases, recognize that you’re not the one being inappropriate so don’t feel obligated to discuss any personal topics. Don’t encourage personal discourse by offering advice or asking for more information when Peter opens up. You are not required to answer personal questions; however, a laugh or joke is the best reply to an offensive question.
* Thomas the Thief
Thomas is always on the lookout for opinions and ideas that he can pass along as his own. Thomas’ victims are surprised to hear their own ideas mentioned by the boss as a “brilliant idea” from Thomas himself. Better yet, Thomas will also go so far as to take your ideas and have them mysteriously appear in his reports.
Learn from the experience. Making a scene that Thomas stole your idea isn’t going to win you any points or respect. As with Sammy, don’t get into an office war and limit your discussions with this person to topics such as the weather or sports.
* Calvin the Clinger
Calvin is very much like Peter and views the office as one, big happy family. If you work together, Calvin sees no harm in spending weekends, evenings, and holidays together. He’s always suggesting going out after work, playing ball, or some other group activity. If you’re willing to socialize with the office crowd, then Calvin isn’t a problem. The problems surface when you want to maintain some distance.
Decide how much of your private time you’re willing to share with office-mates. Participate in group activities when you desire, and don’t apologize or provide excuses otherwise.
* Bond, James Bond
James is the boss’s eyes and ears. Luckily, this person generally blows his cover quickly, especially when you hear things from your boss that you said in front of James. Unfortunately, because of James’ slick style, victims must learn about James the hard way.
Your best bet is to always be on guard with what you say and do in front of James and his cohorts.
