And while co-workers often butt heads with one another, workplace consultants say the office pariah is most often the boss. Dealing with these situations isn't easy. Kathy quit her job as an account executive at a New York public relations firm after a senior account executive's lack of professionalism drove her to distraction. Unfortunately, many people don't have the luxury of quitting. Or maybe they like their jobs and want to make them work in spite of some unpleasant aspects.
Experts say there are steps employees can take to cope with moody bosses and co-workers.
It's helpful to remember that taking action to mend difficult work relationships can make a difference. We're quick to assume that the problem is the other person's. They need to know all details before making a decision. So you have to force yourself, when you have an idea you want to sell, to gather all the data that's necessary and present it to them in a logical fashion. It also helps to take personalities into account when forming teams.