Second Time Around

Have you had to work with someone that you know in the past hated you quite passionately?

A week or two ago I got a new project to work on. I enjoy getting to finish things and pick up new ones, as it brings new sets of challenges and learning opportunities for me and others. With that fluctuation in assignments certainly comes the ability for me to work with different people. Some of those different people I can work extremely well with which is very much enjoyable. Others though.. not so much!

I worked with a woman a few years ago on something and we ended up getting it finished.. but she clearly had a passionate distaste for me and how I do things. I think she likes being the head honcho in an outfit and although I don't think I give off those same vibes, I certainly am extremely confident and knowledgeable in what I do. She's used to people who defer to her for everything because they really don't know a lot. It's not fault of theirs, but it's just something that ends up happening. With me though, she couldn't act like the big dog and I think that really pissed her off.

Thankfully we wrapped up our business relationship when the project was completed and we moved on, with minimal contact for a few years up until recently. I got assigned a new project and she is one of the people I will be working with!

I was both dismayed at this notion but at the same time looking forward to it. I am certainly not someone who likes to shy away from a challenge or an opportunity to learn and grow. I am going to be taking this as an opportunity to learn and grow myself, so that I can figure out how I can work better with her in particular. I work very well with pretty much everybody else in my group except her and I don't see eye to eye.

With my growth and experience that I've gained since I worked with her a few years ago, I am really hoping that we can improve our business relationship and get to a better place where we respect each other enough to have a decent rapport. This may not be possible that's for sure, but it's one of those things that I want to be able to improve simply for the fact that it is a way for me to help improve my people skills with those that I don't get along with. I think that's an important skill and ability for anyone to have and develop as it shows you are more mature.

The thing I am wondering is if she will be receptive to this whole thing or if she will just back out and request someone else be assigned. I think she may be that type of person, where she's old enough that she has no interest in giving someone another chance unless it's a customer she has to work with. Internally, she seems very combative and not supportive of the people around her. I get that we are all a little different and that's okay, but I think those types of mindsets are the thinking of the past and not conducive to the future we are stepping into every day.

What will happen with her and I? Will it be water under the proverbial bridge? Time will tell!