Image from Craig Grocott

The Top Four Coworkers to Avoid

1. The One Who Doesn’t Have Consideration For Others: He’s loud, his cell phone is never on silent, he talks about inappropriate things, leaves the kitchen a mess, you name it. This person does not think about how their behavior affects others.
Why Should You Avoid Him? Getting distracted by an annoying and rude person can throw off the vibe in the office. You have enough trouble balancing work-related frustrations without having to bother with this idiot. Avoid him, so he doesn’t get to you!

2. The Creeper: Ick. My skin is already crawling. You can feel his eyes on you, the guy who always makes a comment about your appearance and always invites you to happy hour. He finds unnecessary reasons to talk or visit with you, and, most likely, he’s got a daughter about your age. Creepers are all over, but their effect in the workplace is particularly off-putting.

Why Should You Avoid Him? This one is obvious. The workplace is your home away from home! You deserve to feel comfortable there. He should not be given a second of your time.

3. The Slacker. This is that coworker/friend who likes to be lazy and see what they can get away with, like the bad kid in school. They get you to take long lunches; they come up to your cube to talk for too long; they are generally unconcerned about the image they portray to others in the workplace.

Why Should You Avoid Her? As much as you like her on the weekends, you don’t want to be associated with this person at work. Your reputation speaks volumes, and unfortunately, you are usually judged by who you surround yourself with.

4. The Gossip. This one has been working in your office for years. She always has the latest news as to why this coworker has been out all week or why that coworker is going through a divorce. She’s a cubicle-hopper, frequent whisperer, and probably spends equal time investigating people as she does on her actual work.

Why Should You Avoid Her? It’s hard not to get sucked in with this one. Gossip can be fun. But like The Slacker, this person is not to be associated with. Not only could you appear equally as unprofessional, but you may be linked with her spreading of bad rumors.

I have learned a lot of lessons since I started working in an office. What I’m constantly reminded of is that I cannot be friends with everyone. Some people just need to be avoided in order to give me a better piece of mind and help my reputation as a young professional. Avoiding these types of people does not warrant rudeness, just the maintaining of a strictly professional relationship. A smile, a quick ‘Hello’ and you’re on your way. Then you can take that time you saved and focus it on developing relationships with coworkers that are meaningful.

Is my list too short? Please comment if you can think of others to avoid!