Nearly every workplace has them: the Naysayer, who dismisses team members' ideas; the Spotlight

Stealer, who claims credit for a colleague's efforts; and other annoying coworkers who make
collaboration difficult. Following are six professionals whose irritating behaviors and irksome attitudes
prevent them from forming productive relationships at work -- and what you should to do avoid
following in their footsteps:

1. The Naysayer. This office dweller delights in shooting down ideas. Even during "blue sky"
brainstorming sessions, where all suggestions are to be contemplated with an open mind, the
Naysayer immediately pooh-poohs any proposal that challenges the status quo.

The right approach: Because great solutions often rise from diverse opinions, withhold comment --
and judgment -- until the appropriate time. Moreover, be tactful and constructive when delivering
criticism or alternative viewpoints.

2. The Spotlight Stealer. There is definitely an "I" in "team" according to this glory seeker, who tries
to take full credit for collaborative efforts and impress higher-ups. This overly ambitious corporate
climber never heard a good idea he wouldn't pass off as his own.

The right approach: Win over the boss and colleagues by being a team player. When receiving kudos,
for instance, publicly thank everyone who helped you. "I couldn't have done it without ..." is a savvy
phrase to remember.

3. The Buzzwordsmith. Whether speaking or writing, the Buzzwordsmith sacrifices clarity in favor of
showcasing an expansive vocabulary of cliched business terms. This ineffective communicator loves
to "utilize" -- never just "use" -- industry-specific jargon and obscure acronyms that muddle messages.
Favorite buzzwords include "synergistic," "actionable," "monetize," and "paradigm shift."
The right approach: Be succinct. Focus on clarity and minimize misunderstandings by favoring direct,
concrete statements. If you're unsure whether the person you are communicating with will understand
your message, rephrase it, using "plain English."
4. The Inconsiderate Emailer. Addicted to the "reply all" function, this "cc" supporter clogs
colleagues' already-overflowing inboxes with unnecessary messages. This person also marks less-
than-critical emails as "high priority" and sends enormous attachments that crash unwitting recipients'
computers.
The right approach: Break the habit of using email as your default mode of communication, as many
conversations are better suited for quick phone calls or in-person discussions. The benefit? The less
email you send, the less you're likely to receive.
5. The Interrupter. The Interrupter has little regard for others' peace, quiet or concentration. When
this person is not entering your work area to request immediate help, the Interrupter is in meetings
loudly tapping on a laptop, fielding calls on a cell phone, or initiating off-topic side conversations.
The right approach: Don't let competing demands and tight deadlines trump basic common courtesy.
Simply put, mind your manners to build healthy relationships at work.
6. The Stick in the Mud. This person is all business all of the time. Disapproving of any attempt at
levity, the constant killjoy doesn't have fun at work and doesn't think anyone else should either.
The right approach: Have a sense of humor and don't be afraid to laugh at yourself once in awhile. A
good laugh can help you build rapport, boost morale, and deflate tension when working under
stressful situations.
It's fairly easy to spot the qualities that make the above individuals irritating -- at least when the
behaviors are displayed by others. It can be a challenge to recognize when you exhibit them yourself.
You may not realize, for instance, that you always pepper your communications with industry- or
company-specific jargon, even when speaking with new employees or outside contacts. Though you
may not be a full-fledged Interrupter or Stick in the Mud, take care to avoid heading down their paths.