Beware the Back-Stabbing Coworkers...

I just read this article and decided to post it here in my blog. I think this maybe applicable to you or your friends office life.... hehehe... I think this issue can be found in all companies we have or I can say that this kind of people are everywhere in business world....


Think you've been stabbed in the back at work? If so, you're not alone.

"Are you aware of a coworker trying to make you look bad or sabotage your work in the last year?"

Many Forms of Sabotage

"Sabotage can happen in any organization, but some forms are special to the industry," Namie says. "In creative fields, it may take a passive form, such as not contributing to the group effort. In health care, a seasoned professional may withhold vital information, which not only hurts the new employee but also affects patient care."

Workplace saboteurs come in several types, including:

* Belittlers, who hurl put-downs, demeaning remarks and disparaging comments.
* Credit thieves, who steal your ideas and grab the glory when a project is successful.
* Finger pointers, who pin the blame on others when the project goes wrong.
* Rumor-mongers, stirring up drama by spreading lies and half-truths that destroy reputations.
* Slackers, who shirk responsibility and foist duties onto others.
* Scorched-earth managers, who will undermine or even fire a smart, capable worker when they feel threatened by brains and talent.

A 2007 Zogby International survey had even more bad news about workplace bullying: in 62% of workplace bullying cases, when made aware of bullying, employers worsen the problem or simply do nothing.

Guarding Against Sabotage

If you're certain you've been the target of sabotage, Namie offers several remedies:

* Get allies. Know that the bully will have allies, so you'll need all the back up you can get.
* Go three levels up, if possible. A bully's boss may be in on the game, so go above their heads to make your case.
* Don't get personal. "Instead of saying how you were hurt by what happened, show how sabotage is causing the business to suffer," Namie says.
* Ask for protection. Again, make your case business-related, not personal, and explain that your productivity can improve if you're not constantly looking over your shoulder.
* Prepare for your next job. Unfortunately, whistle blowers can be blamed for their own fate. If things go from bad to worse, know that you may have to leave the job you love.

source: Yahoo hotjobs