Despite what Paula Abdul and MC Skat Kat might have told us, opposites don’t always attract. You’ve heard the old adage about oil and water (oil and water don’t mix, for all those in the class who were sick that day), and it’s very true that some people don’t get along. Of course, this shouldn’t worry you. Unless, of course, you have to work together.
I’m not talking about someone not pulling their weight or failing to get proper recognition. I don’t mean figuring things out with your archenemy (this person is probably more of a nemesis, anyway). No, this is about coming together in a non-cliche way to accomplish a common goal without feeling the need to find more common ground, respect, or trust for one another. Because let’s face it, sometimes you don’t want to make more friends. And sometimes, you just really don’t like somebody. And that’s okay.
Some people will suggest that you acknowledge the animosity between you two and suggest a few alternatives. But the problem with that strategy is that it is contingent on both of you being aware of your mutual dislike for each other, something both parties may not even be aware of. Also, they could put in the dig, “Well, I like you…”, which will exacerbate the situation.
Some others will say that it’s a good idea to limit your contact with the other person as much as possible, keep to yourself, and do your own work. In the case of this solution, that requires that both of you do an amazing job on the task in a way that makes it seem like you worked together. If one or both of you does poorly, the animosity will only increase.
No, the best way to deal with this situation is to work together.
And by work together, I mean that you collaborate, focusing only on the task. No conversational non-sequiturs, no attempting to bridge the gap, and as few arguments as possible. When you’ve tried to work with this person before and failed, consider those experiences a point of reference on how to keep from things going pear-shaped. If you feel that an argument is coming on, follow the old British World War II slogan, and just keep calm and carry on.
And, hey, here’s a dumb question: is the person who assigned the two of you to work together aware that you don’t get along?
It’s always a thrill for a leader to unite two disparate people or groups; it helps them work on their own leadership skills, and is a good show of their accomplishments when it comes time for them to report to their bosses. They might think that all of the two of you need is a little push to become the best of co-workers. But if you’re uncomfortable, let them know. You might feel like a tattletale, but it’s worth saving your professional image (and your sanity) to be up-front about it. Heck, the other person might have told them the same thing.
Sometimes, two people don’t work well together, and that’s okay. But if you try to ignore the problem or fight it, things can get ugly rather quickly. Well, not as ugly as having a cartoon cat rap and sing about being your lover, but close.
