How to work with people you don’t like

This series has been examining the importance of relationships for dental nurses from a variety of perspectives – the dental nurse, the patient, junior staff, managers and senior clinicians. At the heart of these explorations is the assumption that positive and professional relationships lead to enhanced team working, enhanced personal job satisfaction and enhanced patient care. I have worked as a clinical general and mental health nurse and nurse teacher for many years and, for 90% of that time, have had the pleasure of working with people and teams where the relationships have been positive and constructive. But I’m also aware of the realities of working in teams where there are personality clashes, ill feelings and, at times, overtly destructive relationships amongst some staff members.