How do I deal with resentment from a co-worker in the office?

Question

I am the newest and the youngest employee (by a good amount) in my office and for one reason or another, a co-worker increasingly seems to come across as if they do not feel that I am qualified to be there. This is inspite of my having a higher educational attainment and a host of other achievements that I've accomplished that make me qualified for the job. At the present, this person tends to throw compliments my way on a somewhat regular basis, but how they say the compliments gives me the impression that they are unsincere.

This person is relatively new as well and as such, their opinion does not affect me in any way...but I'm woried that their resentment could grow and lead to them acting out passive agrressively down the road.

Answer 1

I know the type, and think you're concern is wise and valid. This person is probably intimidated, and this can get ugly. I would try to show this person you are not a threat to them. Perhaps once they see you as an equal rather than a threat, they'll stop being so jealous. Try boosting their self-esteem a bit. If they think you admire them, they'll feel less inferior. Ask them to lunch, extend little courtesies. This should nip your problem in the bud. BUT, if you try all this and this person does start getting passive aggressive, you may need to start sending messages that you won't tolerate it, by using assertive speech. Good luck!

Answer 2

Sounds like jealousy and a LOT of resentment. The fact that you hold more achievements and qualifications then that person is whats causing it. I had a work colleague that way also. When i became a nursery teacher and she was my teachers assistant. she was like I'm a 36 year old women taking orders from a 20 year old. I guess there is not much you can do. If it was to go further i would tell my boss. Other then that hold your manners and continue as you are.