PODCAST: Caught in the Middle of A Co-Worker Feud?
How to Get Yourself Out of The Middle
At one time or another, you’ve probably found yourself smack dab in the middle of other people’s tensions, tussles and antagonistic relationships. A very uncomfortable place to be.
Here are a few principles to keep in mind that can help you extricate yourself from the middle, or at least manage the tension with grace and professionalism.
- First, remain true to your point of view. Don’t let the negativity of others contaminate your opinion of either party.
- Don’t make their problem your problem. If they share concerns or criticism with you, a helpful response might be, “Have you talked to so and so about that?”
- Empathize with their experience, but don’t agree. If you feel pressure to respond, without debating the point, say something like, “That surprises me. That’s not my experience of so and so.”
- Lastly, don’t trust toxic talk, or contribute to the spread of gossip.