Here is another valuable Management Tip of the Day from Harvard Business Review. To sign up for a free subscription to any/all HBR newsletters, please click here.

If you work with someone who isn’t a team player, it’s tempting to shun the person for not chipping in when they should. But you’re better off reaching out to that person and making a connection.

o You can start by approaching your colleague with friendly questions, rather than accusations. You might ask “What else is going on for you right now?”

o The roots of their behavior may surprise you. The person could be dealing with a stressful situation at home that is leading to distraction at the office. Or they may be feeling work pressures that you are unaware of.

o Don’t make assumptions about why they have a bad attitude. Find out more information. Consider taking your colleague out to coffee or lunch. And bring along a couple of colleagues to promote team cohesion. More interactions will promote friendlier group relations.

Adapted from “How to Work with Someone Who Isn’t a Team Player,” by Carolyn O’Hara

To check out that HBR article and join the discussion, please click here.

Here’s a direct link to dozens of other Management Tips.