Specifically, 55 percent of those who have a workplace rivalry said it has created undue stress and reduced their productivity, while 20 percent said it has gotten them into trouble with management. Just 6 percent of those surveyed said competing with someone in the office inspires them to do their best work. Some rivalries get so bad that employees look for work elsewhere. Nearly 30 percent of those surveyed have considered leaving their jobs because of office rivals. The majority of U.S. workers say the competition they have with co-workers or bosses has hurt their job performance.
Employees named a few ways they deal with a workplace rival that causes them stress, including working hard and focusing on their goals, talking about the situation with their managers, and learning new skills to outshine the competition. Since companies work hard to hire the best talent available, rivalries are bound to occur when similarly skilled and motivated individuals work together. However, office competition doesn’t have to harm a workplace. Balance is key. Let workplace competition motivate you to perform your best, but don’t get distracted by jealousy. Counter competitive tensions by finding common ground through sports, shared hobbies or just having a drink after hours. If you can’t get the tension under control, find ways to distance yourself from your adversary. Explore your options from switching desks to switching companies,and remember that living and working well is the best revenge.
