Competing with each other is a normal part of life. The need to be better than other people is what drives us to work on ourselves. However, problems occur when rivalry becomes more than wanting to outdo the competition. When the focus shifts from the competition to the individual, and you create a rival, which you really want to beat.
If left alone, rivalry between colleagues can result in undue stress, troubled team dynamics, bitterness, jealousy, or latent anger, all of which set the stage for a much more turbulent impending conflict. In extreme cases, it can affect the company, like these corporate rivalries that got intense.
Understand the source of resentment
Look at the reasons that led to the problem in the first place. Did they outperform you at your job? Is it just a difference of perspectives, or personalities, or are they actually working to undermine you? Have you only heard others say that they were rude about you, or have you actually heard them talk badly about you yourself? Dig a bit deeper and find the root f the issue, before it turned into the over-arching problem it is now.
Refrain from taking pot-shots
It’s very tempting to give a sarcastic or witty answer to a rival in front of other people, but for your own sake, resist the urge. Not only does make it harder to resolve the dispute, but it makes you vulnerable to being thrown under the bus as well. The best policy is not to provoke people. Taking pot-shots can also have a negative impact on your own reputation.
Don’t ask others to pick a side
Don’t ask your colleagues to choose sides in your dispute. If you ask them to do this, you will be putting them in a difficult position. By asking them to take sides, you are only making the problem worse. If things escalate, this could get you in a difficult spot with your company’s management. If you get others involved to back you up, this also makes you appear timid and under-confident, even if you think you are in the right.
Offer to resolve the tension
Be the bigger person, and offer to resolve the tension, for the sake of your peace of mind, and the team’s well being. This situation is a win-win for everyone. If the conflict does get resolved, you will be appreciated for taking the first step. If they don’t want to reconcile, you still made an effort and can get the credit for trying to solve the problem.
Work, Work, Work
If nothing else works, the best way to make your point and stand out better than a work rival is to be good at what you do. Trying different conflict resolutions are the best option to diffuse workplace rivalries, but if you are determined to be the one who gets the last word on the matter, work hard to prove your merit at work. You can win respect from your critics and rivals too.