I’m am in an interesting situation where I am currently undertaking a work project with a group of another 4 guys. It basically boils down to presenting our products to very important perspective customers and it needs to be successful.

Now, these guys all know each other and are well familiar with the product, and due to my background and specialisation, I was made to make our presentation a cut above from our competition. This wasn’t an issue for me as many people come to me for help in this kinds of work. Also the success of this project is greatly important to the company and looks good on my track record.

The problem starts that I am actively being left in the dark by the group and being avoided. Confronting one of the guys they won’t work with me or go out of the way to get me out of this project, keeping in mind I don’t even know them. Apparently one of the guys can’t stand me for unknown reasons so he plans the group to finish the work without me. This was good as I am able to focus on other projects but when checking the progress it was clear that it would be nowhere near presentable anytime soon.

I have a good reputation at the firm I am currently at, get along with just about everyone I’ve met up until now and I am keen to match the same level of respect others give me.

Either their plan is to make me do all the work myself which screw that or plan to kamikaze themselves onto me. Either way they have more to lose than I do. Arguing with them would certainly be fruitless and letting them continue their would get me to be involved with their failure.

Management does not want to be involved and I can’t back away from the project. What is the correct way in handling such a situation? And why go so far as to ruin themselves over trying to screw with me?

I cannot see the logic behind it and I would appreciate some guidance on this subject.