If this is the first time you have experienced a negative co-worker then it can be pretty devastating.  Not only are you feeling hurt but chances are you are also wondering what to do about it.

Often the negative co-worker is a master at disguise.  They usually know exactly what they are doing when they make hurtful or sarcastic comments.  They are also usually experts at the "cover up".

A "cover up" is when the negative co-worker's comment is made to appear as constructive criticism to "help" you.  These people will also employ out right denial if confronted by you in an attempt, usually successful, to make you look like an overly sensitive wimp.

What to do?  It does not matter if this person is in a position of authority over you or simply another underling, any attempt to get them back will fail.  It is unfair, yes, but it is also true.

Negative co-workers have honed this skill and let's face it; you are probably a nice person who would not intentionally hurt another.  That is why you are trying to figure out how to handle this in the first place.

There are only two sure ways to handle negative co-workers

1        Avoid them whenever possible

2        If you can not avoid them, do not listen to them

This type of person will seek targets for their negativity so make your self less of a target by following these two simple rules.  Engaging them will only add fuel to their fire and you do not want that.

If this seems unfair to "let them get away with it", then rest assured that at some point they will target the wrong person and get their just deserts.  Stooping to their level is not an option that enhances your self esteem.

You can employ more positive ways to get over the hurtful treatment they dished out.  We all know that misery truly does love company and if they realize you will not play along, they will seek someone who will.

In the meantime, you can use this experience to your advantage.  How you may ask?

• Now you know this person's nature
• Observe who else this person is targeting
• Be kind to everyone
• Act as a role model for positive self esteem
• Acknowledge that you always have the choice to be positive or not and choose to be positive

The fact is that this person may become a catalyst for change in your life.  Having observed how this person acts can help you commit to always being supportive and kind to others.

In a more tangible way, you may also find that this person causes you to evaluate if the job or position you are currently in is where you want to be.  Who knows, you may actually have the negative co-worker to thank for "pushing" you into your dream job!