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It’s not all difficult
An insecure co-worker can vitiate the workplace environment and make things difficult for the rest of the team
Prachi Verma Dadhwal gets tips from experts on how to deal with an insecure co-worker and shield oneself from negative impact of such a colleague.
Role model
In case you come across an insecure co-worker, make sure you demonstrate just the opposite and positive traits. “Become a flag-bearer of an organisation’s value and culture. Depict it in your every action,” says Prateek N Kumar, CEO, NeoNiche.
Conversation
Try to reach out and clarify situations where the co-worker has exhibited insecure behaviour. “Insecurity is a common psychological state, often unfounded and misplaced. Once acknowledged and clarified, it may eliminate insecurity altogether,” says Prabir Jha, global chief people officer at Cipla. “Have a fact-based discussion with the person in private without your emotions running wild,” says Kumar.
Focus
Your work objectives should be very clear. Always remember that any positive contribution to the company and team goals should be welcomed. “Be a positive contributor to team goals, but do ensure that you do not allow backstabbing of another colleague in your presence,” says Kumar. “Gossip should not be tolerated in your presence.”
Less attention
Do not pay excessive attention to insecure co-workers. “People exaggerate their sense of insecurity if you allow them to keep articulating their worries endlessly. Not fanned, a lot of the insecurity can actually evaporate,” says Jha.
Distance
It is best to leave the insecure person alone rather than having unproductive engagements. Attempts should be made only till the point where the outcome is positive. “It is wise to limit the interaction with the insecure coworker,” says Kumar. Jha says if nothing else helps, you should stay away from such people if you cannot completely avoid them. “You run the risk of their insecurity rubbing off on you,” he says.