
Workplace sabotage involves deliberate actions by employees or coworkers to disrupt, hinder, or damage the work environment, productivity, or reputation of others or the organization. These actions can range from subtle behaviors, such as withholding critical information, spreading rumors, or excluding someone from important tasks, to more overt acts like tampering with equipment, misusing resources, or undermining a colleague’s work.
Example Signs of Workplace Sabotage:
- Deliberate Miscommunication: Failing to share key updates to cause mistakes.
- Undermining Efforts: Criticizing someone’s work publicly to diminish their credibility.
- Resource Blocking: Denying access to tools or opportunities needed for success.
How to Respond:
- Document Incidents: Keep a record of specific actions and outcomes.
- Communicate Clearly: Address issues directly and professionally, if safe to do so.
- Seek Support: Report concerns to management or HR for resolution.
Recognizing sabotage early and addressing it constructively can help mitigate its effects on your work and well-being.