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In an ideal workplace, everyone would get along and do their part to ensure the company succeeds. Unfortunately, we don’t work in that dream world–and find ourselves surrounded by people who can be downright vile. Most make their intentions known while others are sly about their agenda. Here are 10 signs your co-worker has it out for you.
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Points out mistakes
Whether they do it on purpose or unintentionally, there is nothing more annoying than someone who feels the need to point out your flaws. Yes there are folks who don’t mean anything by it, but do keep your eyes peeled for colleagues who have your “best interests” at heart.
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Instigate situations
“Wow, I’m surprised you let him talk to you like that.”
Rather than find themselves in the center of an argument, bad co-workers will sit on the sideline with their popcorn and watch you make a fool of yourself. Be careful how much nonsense you entertain. There are people out there who have no problem winding you up to see you argue.
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Gives you bad advice
Pay close attention to what people tell you. This way, you don’t miss them revealing who they really are. If someone is constantly giving you advice that sounds off, run it by a person you trust–or a person outside the office. Co-workers who want to see you fail will say anything so they can for you to assassinate your own career.
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Tries to work your contacts
Honey you worked way too hard to have people come up on your coattails. Don’t be so eager to expose co-workers to your contacts. Sure this might sound a bit paranoid, but the truth is there are sneaky people who have zero shame in working your connection circle for their own benefit.
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Can’t mask jealousy
“Oh you got that project? Why?”
Don’t mistake a colleague’s obvious jealousy as a sign of healthy competition. There are some people in the world who are unable to mask their envy of others. When a person shows you their truth, believe them.
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Tattles to management
Isn’t it a “coincidence” how often your boss is starting to come to you with critiques about whether you’re following company policy. A person who tattles to management about you has no life or your best intentions at heart. You might want to reconsider how much of your business you tell to others.
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Competes for the same promotions
Of course there will be times when you and your colleague want the same job–especially if you two are on the same team. If however you notice the same co-worker going after the same promotions you want, take notice. Perhaps it’s a good idea if you keep your career plans to yourself, or someone a bit more trustworthy.
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Tries to sabotage your work
This one might be a little more hard to notice…until it’s too late. If and when you start to notice things constantly going wrong, look for common denominators. Is there anyone else who has access to your work or the things you do? You might want to rethink how much information you leave around for all to see. There could very well be a co-worker waiting in the wings to “save the day.”
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Steals your ideas
“So what do you think about this project? How would you tackle it?”
As excited as you may get over an idea, be careful how quickly you share it. Unfortunately there is no “Hey that was my idea!” clauses at work. Do be careful how much business you share with those around you. They just might steal an idea they really like.
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Only want to communicate via email
You might want to question the intentions of a co-worker who never wants to talk in person and always email. Are they notorious for cc’ing others? Sure there’s nothing wrong with documenting your conversations, but do you have to do it all the time?
