At work, it is likely that you will encounter a coworker with disruptive habits that also hinder your own productivity. There are tact solutions that will avoid ruined relationships and maintain a positive environment. Apply these techniques on how to deal with a colleague with bad work habits.

1. Prepare evidence. Telegraph reported that you should make a diary, list and actual documents that will serve as evidence for the confrontation. You may even talk to other colleagues who are equally distracted with the coworker’s behavior. These can be used to support your statements and will not present you as a rude individual. Face-to-face meetings are a sensitive situation so having the proper evidence to back up your allegations will work to your advantage.

2. Talk privately. Ask to talk to the coworker in private. Choose the right time and place where no one else can overhear or see the discussion. Maintain a calm tone and clearly state how her behavior is negatively affecting your own work. Choose your words wisely and avoid attacking the person. Focus on the issue and give your coworker the opportunity to explain or apologize.

3. Get superior support. NJ.com recommended that you may also seek help from your boss if your colleague responds negatively during the conversation or you fail to come up with a sound resolution. Having a superior mediate will ease the matter and also compel both parties to seek a viable solution.

4. Ignore. You may also ignore the colleague if the behavior can be avoided by moving to another part of the office or not communicating with the person unless the matter is office-related.

5. Leave notes. You may leave well-written notes on your colleague’s desk to let him know about the disruptive behavior. There are chances that the person may be completely unaware of his practices and can be quickly apologetic about the situation. Start by keeping the note positive or even fun, depending on the habit.

Thank and compliment the person if he apologizes and tells you that he will change his behavior. Let your coworker know how you appreciate his presence and contributions in the office and that you are optimistic about the new changes.