Coach's corner: Problems dealing with a moody co-worker

Q: I have a colleague who is moody and unpredictable. Sometimes she'll take days to respond to a time-sensitive request, and other times she's right on it. Sometimes her replies will be snarky, and other times quite solicitous. This does not seem to vary with her workload, and I suspect personal issues are involved. I'm ready to go to her supervisor, but feel I should talk with her first. Any suggestions?

A: Going to her first is a respectful step; timing will be the key.

So, how do you feel about it all? Your question is very much about the other person, and not so much about you. Are you angry? Confused? Hurt? It'll be important to identify your reactions so that you can have a successful conversation with her. Take some breaths, and take time to understand your feelings.

It's also interesting that you've drawn a conclusion that personal issues are involved. You may be correct; however, take some time to think about other explanations, too, so that you don't become invested in your own interpretation.

Now, look at the situation from her perspective. If she seems to be aware of her behavior, how does she explain it? Apart from response to requests, are other aspects of her work relationships volatile?

Finally, consider whether it's just you or if other people are experiencing the same pattern. Even if it's limited to you, it doesn't absolve it, but it does help clarify whether the actions may be appropriate.

Prepare to talk with her at a time when neither of you is upset. Ask permission to give feedback first; if she refuses, try to find a different time. If she still declines, it'll be time to escalate.

If you don't get anywhere with her, then it'd be appropriate to involve your boss, just to be sure that there aren't any political mine fields. Perhaps he or she would prefer to do the escalation.

If some of the situation proves to be personal, then it's not your place to escalate (unless it poses a risk to your colleague or others). However, encouraging her to go to her supervisor would then be appropriate.

In many cases, people are not aware of the effect of their behavior on others, and having it brought to their attention takes you 90 percent of the way to fixed. If this is the case, be sure to give positive feedback on the change in order to re­inforce the improvement.

Respectful and open communication may help your colleague become more consistent in meeting timelines.