colleagues

TEAMS: According to the old saying, one bad apple can spoil the whole barrel. Careers experts say this is true in the workplace, too: just one or two unpleasant or lazy colleagues can have a negative effect on the entire team.

PREFERENTIAL TREATMENT: Does your boss give one of your colleagues all the best assignments? Does she tell jokes with others, but never with you? Does he turn a blind eye when one particular co-worker comes in late or leaves early?

INTERESTS: At work, you’re known for being efficient, practical and no-nonsense. But outside the office, you’re a different person. How much of your other self should you reveal to your colleagues?

CRUEL COMMENTS: Has this happened to you? A colleague makes a hurtful comment about your work and you are so shocked you can’t think of a response. Later — much, much later — you think of a clever comeback, but by then the moment has passed.

FEELING TIRED: It’s late afternoon and you’re nearing the end of a long workday. Unfortunately, the end is not quite near enough: you still have lots to do, and a couple of hours till quitting time. Here's how to cope — without coffee or chocolate.

CONFLICT: You don’t have to like your colleagues in order to work with them. But if you find a colleague truly awful, going to work can seem like a terrible chore.

RELATIONSHIPS: You may think nothing can come between you and your best friend, but you could be wrong. Working with a close friend can change your relationship — and have a negative effect on the quality of your work.