It’s frustrating when a teammate doesn’t pull their weight—but it doesn’t have to derail you. You can manage the situation without letting it harm your career. Here’s how.
Document your contributions. Keep a clear record of your work. It’s not about blaming anyone; it’s about showing your role in the project. Whether through emails, updates in project management tools, or private notes, this habit ensures transparency and provides a safety net if accountability becomes a question.
Leverage their strengths. Find something they excel at—even if it’s last-minute cramming or bold honesty. Align tasks with their natural tendencies and acknowledge their contributions. A little encouragement can sometimes motivate them and spark new reliability.
Don’t complain. Resist gossip or venting. Instead, approach your coworker directly with constructive feedback. If patterns persist, escalate to your manager thoughtfully: focus on their impact on the team and propose solutions.
Embrace the learning opportunity. Unreliable coworkers can teach you resilience, adaptability, and how to maintain professionalism under pressure. Use this as a chance to refine your skills and learn new ways to navigate challenges.
Reflect on past wins. Think back to how you handled similar dynamics before. Apply those lessons now, knowing this phase is temporary—and a stepping stone toward stronger collaboration skills. |
