How do you deal with different personalities? Especially in the workplace?
I started my new job about 3 months ago and I still enjoy it very much. I’m working on a high profile project in which I have a lead part but others have input. I’m finding that after decisions are made, the concept changes. I have no problem with this but it’s always because I misunderstood or something of that nature. Things change so quickly that before I go back to my desk, things have changed. Sometimes, I know, sometimes I don’t.
Learning some of the background information about the project, their ‘favorite” is not assigned to the project any longer. Plus their favorite did whatever they wanted, whenever they wanted, not going through procedures.
So I, just coming in, am going through the procedures. And lo and behold, there’s a problem. My boss keeps saying it’s not me, it’s not my work; they are just used to their favorite.
But I can’t help but to think is it me? Going back through my documentation, I haven’t done anything wrong, I just don’t do it exactly like the favorite. I want to do a good, no, great job but I’m not about to let anyone play me.
So my questions to you, are how do you know if you’re the problem or not? How do you deal with different personalities?
Doing all of these rotations, I’ve had the same issue. It takes time for them to get used to the way you do things and to stop comparing you to someone else. Plus, it would help if they were more open to realize that you need guidance and to be in the loop.
Maybe just throw procedure out the window like the favorite did, and do what you want? Is that why the favorite is no longer on the project?
It’s not you; it’s them. They don’t like change. And you represent change.
If procedure doesn’t work, then maybe outlining YOUR next steps and making sure everybody has an ELECTRONIC and hard-copy draft of those steps AND a deadline for providing their input IN WRITING, might prove helpful.
Once you’ve given them the opportunity to provide guidance IN WRITING and they either do or don’t, you can move on. If one of them comes back to you with changes, point out to them, however firmly, that this is what was agreed upon and this is how you feel you must proceed, if there is ever to be completion of the project. If, however, they offer something constructive, just let them know you’ll take it into consideration but, again, move on. Always move on.
I empathize with what you’re going through because I’ve been there. I think all of them now leave me alone because they think I might be a little off. Hey, it works. LOL
One more thing: The favorite obviously hit the same brick walls, which is why the project never got completed. I’ve seen this happen on one too many projects around there. Perhaps, the favorite didn’t mind as much as you do, because the continuous restarts meant little-to-no real work had to be accomplished. But we know you won’t go out like that.
To be honest with you both, the favorite is a b!tch who loves the limelight. “I swooped in and saved the day” type person. I have no time for her. And I agree with you Yolanda, they don’t like change. But don’t make it seem like I don’t know what I’m doing, because I do.
Oh, and getting things in writing doesn’t help because they don’t remember saying that. It’s borderline kindergarten.
I don’t plan on throwing procedure out the window because they wouldn’t like that either. Plus, I want my grade increase and I’m not about to let anything mess that up!!!
Thanks for the advice!
I figured as much about this person.
Don’t you know it’s always easier and more face-saving to make it seem like you don’t know your job? It’s so it’s becoming the American way. I say, get through your probationary period and then move on. I did say, whatever you do, always be moving on, right? LOL