Dealing with a coworker who likes to assert authority or act as if she's in charge can be challenging, but it's essential to handle the situation professionally and constructively. Here's one way you could approach this situation:
- Communicate Openly and Respectfully: Initiate a one-on-one conversation with your coworker to discuss your concerns. Be respectful and avoid accusing or confrontational language. Focus on expressing how her behavior makes you feel and how it impacts the team's dynamics.
For example, you could say something like, "I've noticed that sometimes it feels like you take on a leadership role in our team, even though we have the same job role. It can be a bit challenging for me to navigate when our responsibilities overlap. I think it would be beneficial for us to have a clear understanding of our roles and collaborate more effectively."
Define Boundaries and Roles: During the conversation, emphasize the importance of establishing clear boundaries and roles within the team. Discuss how delineating responsibilities can lead to better collaboration and prevent misunderstandings.
Seek Consensus: Work together to find common ground and agree on how to share responsibilities and make decisions as equals. It's crucial to foster a sense of teamwork and cooperation rather than competition.
Involve a Supervisor or Mediator: If the situation doesn't improve after your initial conversation, or if the behavior continues to be disruptive, consider involving a supervisor or manager as a mediator. They can help facilitate a productive conversation and address any underlying issues.
Focus on Professionalism: Throughout the process, maintain a professional demeanor and avoid engaging in power struggles. Keep your focus on doing your job well and contributing positively to the team.
Document Incidents: If the behavior persists and becomes problematic, document specific incidents where your coworker oversteps her boundaries or creates issues. This documentation can be helpful if you need to escalate the matter to higher management or human resources.
Remember that every situation is unique, and the approach may need to be adapted based on the specific dynamics in your workplace. The goal should be to establish a cooperative and respectful working relationship that benefits both of you and contributes to a harmonious team environment.