How to Deal With an Angry Co-Worker

Dealing with an angry co-worker can be very similar to dealing with an angry client, customer, or even a family member.  Stay positive, stay calm, let the person know you are willing to work with them, and try to reverse the situation the best you can.  It is important to not get angry back, as this may make the situation worse or you may say something you regret. It is also important to understand which type of person you are dealing with in this situation.  Is this the type of person that likes to talk their anger through?  Or would it be best to leave them alone for a little while so they can calm down?

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If your co-worker has said something inappropriate or offensive, it may be best to report the matter to a manager.  This is especially a good idea if this happens on multiple occasions, or if the co-worker has threatened violence.  If your co-worker has threatened violence against you or another co-worker, then you should report the matter immediately.

Human beings feed off of each other’s energy.  Just like with an angry customer call or an argument with a friend, you may be able to calm an angry person with how *you* come off.  If they see that you are not reacting to their anger and you are staying positive and calm, their emotions may change to match yours.

5 thoughts on “How to Deal With an Angry Co-Worker”

  1. I think telling a manager or supervisor is good advice. They should be aware in case the behavior escalates into something further. With all the news of violence in the workplace, you can never be too careful.

  2. There’s a difference between someone just in a bad mood or dangerous. Maybe they have personal problems that are carrying over into the workplace. Before I would bring management into the equation I would give them the benefit of the doubt.

  3. Unlike being at home, there’s nowhere to escape to when there’s a problem at work. I usually try to let it go on day one but if it lingers, a quiet, direct talk will hopefully settle the problem.

  4. Having that “icky” feeling with a co-worker is extremely stressful. It can permeate your overall feeling about coming to work. I think it is best to at least attempt to clear the air and work it out with the co-worker; but upon doing so, you must keep an open mind and not let yourself get even more upset. Hopefully the other person will meet you half way and you can agree to disagree, if necessary, but at the same time come to a mutual agreement to move on and work harmoniously together. When this doesn’t happen, it may, unfortunately, be necessary to involve your manager or even HR.

  5. I don’t get the point of being grumpy and miserable. If I have to deal with one of these personalities, I just kill them with kindness.

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