Dear Margaret: I work for a rather large business in a department with employees who are generally extremely dissatisfied with their job. The conversation is always centered on gripes about responsibilities, perceived unfairness, inequitable pay scale, harmful gossip about other staff, bosses held in disdain, and on and on. I used to love coming to work and now because of the attitudes of coworkers, I’m finding the work environment to be troublesome for myself. I have suggested to coworkers that they apply for other positions within the company when they arise since they seem so unhappy there, but they have one excuse after another as to why they can’t make the change. How can I deal with these coworkers and enjoy coming to work again?.
Stuck with Disgruntled Coworkers
Dear Stuck with Disgruntled Coworkers:  I have a surprise for you. You are a disgruntled employee. As hard as it is to believe, some people are actually happy when they are griping about almost anything. Unfortunately, it is part of their social structure and gives them a sense of belonging to a group. You can put in for a transfer out of the department when the opportunity arises. However, be aware that this is a problem that will probably follow you, and it might be best to deal with it where you are. Don’t take part in damaging conversation. Either remove yourself when the gossip begins, or bring up a more positive topic of conversation. If diversionary tactics and removing yourself from the conversation don’t work, this may be a truly toxic environment and it is time to brush up your own resume.

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