For a healthy work life, it is suggested that you keep your co-workers your 9 to 5 friends only.
But then, there are always these newbies who don’t realise the importance of an independent, personal life and cling on to you like a leech trying to be your best friend. You have been warned: watch it before it gets too late because this sudden sweetness might cost you your concentration at work. So, if you are a victim of such a clingy co-worker, follow the steps mentioned below to get yourself out of that mess:
Understand the person
It is completely possible that you might be mis-judging your co-worker who is, probably, just being warm. It is also possible that you might not be used to people who are naturally friendly. Therefore, before you start cutting off from this so called clingy co-worker of yours, think twice. If you take the step just because it’s just in your head, it might create an awkward situation and you might never be able to face this kind-hearted person in the eye ever again.
Introduce them to someone else
Once you’re absolutely sure of what you want to do, it’s time to make the first move. The reason for your co-worker being clingy could be the lack of friends. So, introduce him to a few of your acquaintances. Make sure these acquaintances aren’t the people you have to meet on a regular basis, as that will make this colleague of yours a part of your close circuit. Get them to meet a few times and strategically leave a little early to give them some alone time. Yes, what we are suggesting is a little friendly set-up!
Be polite
Obviously you are trying to pass on your baggage on to someone else, but don’t be rude. Be civilised about the situation. Avoid sharing it with your other co-workers as it will only make you look like the bad guy. Don't come across as to happy to get rid of him. Just make it look like it is happening on its own.
Confront honestly
When all your obvious moves fail to convey the message, it’s probably time for some tough love. Confront him about his behaviour. You should be a little tactful and tell him that you have never gotten so much attention from anyone or tell him that he makes you feel like a celebrity. You don’t need to go on a guilt trip for being honest. You have all the right in the world to like or dislike someone. Set boundaries by telling the clingy co-worker that his behaviour is not acceptable and he needs to watch his moves.
A co-worker’s behaviour can make or break your inclination towards working. And a clingy co-worker can make things even worse. But then again you need to keep your cool and wear a subtle smile all the time. Use the few tricks mentioned above to get rid of that one co-worker who is too pally, only with you. You can run away from that irritating friend or the college ex when at work but where will you run away if someone like them comes to your office in the next cubicle. (Work Life, MensXP.com)
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