How to work with someone you don't like.
- Marty Jalove
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
With nearly eight billion people on this spinning blue marble, it’s a mathematical certainty that we won’t get along with everyone. Sometimes, those people we just don't click with end up being our coworkers, our employees, or even our bosses. Since our careers consume a huge part of our lives, learning to navigate these tricky relationships isn't just a bonus, it's essential for our peace and productivity.
With Special Guest: Tiffany and Kevin!
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Marty, the ever-enthusiastic host, brought his signature BACON acronym to the table, proving once again that everything is better with bacon; even dealing with difficult coworkers. Here’s the breakdown:
B: Boundaries and Body Language
The first step to surviving a challenging coworker is setting clear boundaries. Whether it’s turning your chair slightly away or politely cutting off unnecessary small talk, body language can speak volumes. As Kevin wisely pointed out, “If they know it’s just about work, they won’t take it personally.”
Don't absorb another person's negativity or accept unfair treatment. Your first line of defense is creating a professional shield.
Clearly communicate your limits with polite but firm language.
Keep your posture open, make neutral eye contact, and avoid reactive expressions like eye-rolling or sighing.
A: Avoid When Possible
Sometimes, the best way to deal with someone you don’t like is to steer clear. Tiffany shared a hilarious story about using crystals to keep the positive vibes flowing, proving that even the most zen among us need a little help sometimes.
You don't have to spend every moment with them. Strategic distance can be a powerful tool for maintaining your sanity.
Take your lunch or coffee breaks with other colleagues.
Opt for projects or committees that allow you to collaborate with a wider circle of people.
C: Control the Connection
Marty emphasized the importance of controlling conversations and interactions. Don’t overshare if you don’t want to hear their life story in return. As he put it, “If you don’t want to hear about their family, don’t bring up yours!”
You cannot control how they act, speak, or feel. You can only control your own response. That is where your power lies.
Choose not to let their behavior dictate your mood for the day.
Make a conscious decision to leave work frustrations at work when you head home.
O: Offer a Smile
This one’s for when you’re the one who isn’t liked. A simple smile can go a long way in diffusing tension and showing you’re open to civility, even if friendship isn’t on the table. Tiffany’s infectious charm and Kevin’s knack for listening proved that a little kindness can work wonders.
Civility is not friendship. You don't have to be best friends, but a baseline of professional courtesy keeps the environment from turning toxic.
A simple "hello" or a polite nod can go a long way.
Leave the door open for a better relationship, but don't force it. Let it be, for now.
N: Now Get Back to Work
At the end of the day, you’re there to do a job, not make lifelong friends. Marty reminded us that being friendly is great, but being productive is what really matters.
Remember why you're there: to do a job you care about. Your purpose is your anchor.
If attempts at connection fail, pivot back to your professional duties.
Focus on your tasks and goals, reminding yourself that great work is the ultimate objective.
The Underminers, Idea Bandits, & Gaslighters, Oh My!
The trio didn’t just stop at the BACON acronym. They dove into the different types of difficult coworkers you might encounter, from the Underminer who always tries to make you look bad, to the Idea Bandit who steals credit for your hard work, and even the Gaslighter who makes you question your own sanity.
Marty shared a jaw-dropping story about a coworker who tried to take credit for an invention, while Tiffany revealed how she dealt with a particularly challenging colleague by staying positive and, of course, using her trusty crystals. Marty’s advice? Set boundaries, communicate clearly, and don’t let them get under your skin.
Laughter, Lessons, and a Whole Lot of Fun
This episode wasn’t just about workplace woes, it was also packed with laughs. From Tiffany’s self-deprecating humor to Kevin’s tales of police work, the banter was as entertaining as it was insightful. Marty kept the energy high, poking fun at himself and his guests while delivering practical advice.
One of the standout moments? When Tiffany confessed to venting to her husband, only to find out he hadn’t heard a word because of a bad cell connection. “That’s all I needed,” she laughed. “Just to get it out of my system!”
Why You Need to Listen
This episode of Bacon Bits with Master Happiness is more than just a guide to dealing with difficult coworkers; it’s a reminder that we’re all human, and sometimes, a little humor and a lot of BACON can make even the toughest situations better. Whether you’re dealing with a micromanager, a free rider, or just someone who rubs you the wrong way, Marty, Tiffany, and Kevin have you covered.
How to work with someone you don't like
To learn more about How to work with someone you don't like go to: www.MasterHappiness.com/live or “Bacon Bits with Master Happiness” on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible, iHeart Radio or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.
See it on YouTube
Or catch us LIVE on "BACON BITS with Master Happiness" on 983thelife.com, Monday Night at 7:00 PM and start making your life SIZZLE!
Marty Jalove of Master Happiness is a Company Coach, Business Consultant, and Marketing Strategist that helps small businesses, teams, and individuals find focus, feel fulfilled, and have fun. He helps businesses struggling with communication issues between co-owners, staff, and customers grow a happier and healthier business.
Master Happiness stresses the importance of realistic goal setting, empowerment, and accountability in order to encourage employee engagement and retention. The winning concentration is simple: Happy Employees attract Happy Customers and Happy Customers come back with Friends.
Want to learn more about bringing more happiness into your workplace and life? Contact Master Happiness at www.MasterHappiness.com or www.WhatsYourBacon.com
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So, what are you waiting for? Tune in to Bacon Bits with Master Happiness on Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. Trust us, you’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you might just start carrying a pocketful of crystals to your next meeting.