Success irritates backstabbers, especially when it’s yours.
Don’t twist yourself into knots when someone sticks a knife in your back.
Backstabbers are loyal to their own needs. They promise life but bring death.
How to Deal with Backstabbers
- Don’t retaliate. Cutting people down isn’t your game and shouldn’t be. Rise above it.
- Stay present. Stay engaged. Avoid one-on-one time with the offender when possible.
- Keep your boss informed about your work. Send short updates. “Just thought you’d like to know…”
- Praise people publicly. Give credit freely, especially on shared wins.
- Face perception head-on. When team members question your abilities, explore the feedback. Don’t write it off as malicious. Get examples. Clarify expectations.
- Don’t force loyalty. Avoid asking people to choose sides.
- Extend kindness and courtesy to everyone in the office, especially your backstabber. Good manners are about you, not others.
- Seek outside support. Friends, mentors, or a coach help keep you grounded.
- Strengthen alliances. Build trust with as many coworkers as possible.
- Polish your resume. Be ready to seize a new opportunity.
Act in ways that are best for you and your organization. You can’t control backstabbers; you can control your response.
The best revenge is thriving in plain sight.
What suggestions do you have for someone being stabbed in the back?
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