Observing that "self-limited" types can't be avoided at work, executive coach Roberts (Leadership Secrets of Attila the Hun) identifies 15 types of difficult co-workers—from "Imperious Jerks" to "Workaholics" and "Temperamental Tyrants"—and suggests practical strategies for getting along with each, whether they manage, report to or work alongside the reader. If working for the Jerk, for example, it's important to be "useful"; since such managers "develop relationships based entirely on what other people can do for them," Roberts opines, "like it or not, it's to your advantage to make your boss look good." Like a student in Psychology 101, some readers may find that they suffer a variant of one or two of the disorders described. But one gets the distinct impression that Roberts merely swaps adjectives to create his broadly stereotypical profiles. In every one, he notes that [insert colorful character here] is an oddity in a world where [insert admirable qualities here] allow one to succeed in the workplace. In some chapters he substitutes "paradox" or "enigma" for "oddity," but the repetitive syntax becomes tedious. Roberts offers a line or two of comic relief per chapter, but the subject matter begs for the satirical wit of Dilbert. As a desk reference for dealing with the self-challenged at work, this book holds a few handy insights, but falls short as an entertaining read. (Oct.)
