How can you build trust with a difficult colleague?

2 Communicate clearly and respectfully

The second step to building trust is to communicate clearly and respectfully with your colleague. This means expressing your ideas, opinions, and feedback in a constructive and polite way, without blaming, criticizing, or judging them. It also means listening actively and attentively to what they have to say, without interrupting, dismissing, or arguing with them. By communicating effectively, you can show your colleague that you value their input, respect their views, and are willing to cooperate and compromise.

3 Focus on common goals and interests

The third step to building trust is to focus on the common goals and interests that you share with your colleague. Instead of dwelling on the differences or conflicts that may arise, try to find the areas of alignment and agreement that you have. How can you work together to achieve the objectives and outcomes that matter to both of you? How can you leverage each other's skills and expertise to enhance the quality and efficiency of your work? By focusing on the positive aspects of your relationship, you can foster a sense of collaboration and mutual support.

4 Show appreciation and recognition

The fourth step to building trust is to show appreciation and recognition for your colleague. This means acknowledging their efforts, achievements, and contributions, and expressing gratitude and praise for their work. It also means giving them credit and visibility for their role and impact, and avoiding taking credit for their ideas or accomplishments. By showing appreciation and recognition, you can demonstrate your respect and admiration for your colleague, and boost their confidence and morale.

5 Address issues and concerns promptly and directly

The fifth step to building trust is to address any issues or concerns that may arise with your colleague promptly and directly. This means not avoiding, ignoring, or escalating the problems, but rather confronting them in a calm and respectful way. It also means not making assumptions, accusations, or generalizations, but rather asking questions, clarifying facts, and providing examples. By addressing issues and concerns, you can prevent them from escalating or affecting your work, and show your colleague that you are honest and accountable.

6 Seek feedback and improvement

The sixth step to building trust is to seek feedback and improvement from your colleague. This means asking them for their opinions, suggestions, and advice on how you can improve your work, performance, or relationship. It also means being open and receptive to their feedback, and implementing the changes or actions that they recommend. By seeking feedback and improvement, you can show your colleague that you are humble and willing to learn, and that you value their expertise and perspective.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?