How big a problem is office backstabbing, and how does it affect people at work?
It’s a big problem: People problems are at the core of almost all workplace complaints. When we feel alienated or betrayed, we are more anxious, fearful and stressed. Our focus shifts to finding the source of the problem or figuring out how to deal with the person we think is sabotaging us and as a result, we are less productive. Is the problem worse now because of the bad ecomony? Yes, much worse, because everyone is worried about losing his or her job. There is also less of a support system (workplaces are more lean), and there’s just an overall feeling of stress. What are some of the complaints you hear most about people in the office? It’s always about someone else: the annoying coworker, the difficult boss, the mean-spirited or competitive colleague. It’s people who push our buttons and make our lives miserable. What signs should we look for to help us identify a potential problem? It can be difficult – it’s not always specific. Sometimes it’s a “gut feeling.” You might hear rumor
