Ever notice how Karen from Sales can’t seem to stop talking (how could you not)? Or how Jeffrey in Accounts seems to be a permanent workplace fixture? You might not gel with all your colleagues, but good or bad, you can always benefit from understanding them a little better. Let’s take a look at the different office personalities, quirks, and all.

The Chatterbox

You can identify this personality type a mile off – you’ll probably be able to hear them before they’re even in the office! A sociable being; this person loves a good catch-up and a natter, but might grind the gears of any colleagues who really need to focus. So how can you shush The Chatterbox? It might be hard to butt in without appearing rude, but interrupting with a compliment? Bingo!

The Micromanager

Arguably the most irritating of colleagues, The Micromanager can be more affectionately referred to as ‘the control freak’. Constantly checking in, The Micromanager appears to have trust issues and worries about your ability to handle the simplest of tasks. While their consistent lack of faith is a tad soul-crushing, their praise is also a little patronizing. Nevertheless, the real trick to dealing with a micromanager is actually to just give them what they want by constantly updating them on your progress. This will break the cycle by eliminating their need to check up on you, and reassure their anxious mind.

The Delegator & The Meeting Maker

While these two can come separately, they often appear as one. Tell us, do you have someone in your office who constantly seems to be passing around their workload because they have “really important meetings” they must attend? This colleague can easily be identified by their loud sighs, head-in-hands posing, and dramatic snap-closing of their laptop as they dash out the door. Frustrating as it is, when it comes to this personality type, it’s important to keep in mind that you’re only seeing the tip of the iceberg. Remain calm, help where you can, and focus on the bigger picture.

The Workaholic

The Workaholic lives, sleeps, and breathes work. Not only do they make you question your own work ethic, but they seem to have a magical ability to transform straight-forward tasks into something that takes 10 times longer. While their attitude can often seem over-dramatic, and might even make you look bad (yikes), keep in mind that their conscientiousness may actually show a lack of efficiency. However, The Workaholic can be tamed. You can soothe their irrational need to try even harder, by providing more structure and support.

At the end of the day, teamwork trumps everything; if you can get to know your colleagues and appreciate the wonderful and unique way in which they work, you’ll be the new ‘dream team’ before you know it.

If you’re looking for a new workplace? We’ve got you covered with a variety of design-led snazzy spaces for you and your team. As for the colleagues? That’s on you.

Do you have any of these personalities in your workplace? Or perhaps you’ve spotted yourself. Let us know who’s who over on Twitter at @BoutiqueWorkCo & remember to tag your work pals!