The Psychology of Workplace Backstabbing
December 19, 2024•443 words
"Backstabbers specialize in saying the wrong thing at the wrong time to the wrong person." ~ Les Parrott
"You know that you have been stabbed when you feel the deep pain of betrayal." ~ Les Parrott
Dealing with backstabbers, there was one thing I learned. They're only powerful when you got your back turned. ~ Eminem
Backstabbing in the workplace is often subtle and difficult to detect.
People are not always as they present themselves, and it's important that you don’t naively accept the image they show you. Colleagues may seem friendly or professional on the surface, but they could be hiding hidden motives. This is why you need to pay close attention to their actions, not just their words.
Understanding their comments, noticing sarcastic remarks, and catching subtle signs of dissatisfaction can reveal more than what's being said directly. Sarcasm, in particular, is often used to disguise criticism and can slowly undermine individuals' confidence if you’re not aware of it.
Manipulation is another key tactic used by backstabbers.
Excessive praise might feel good at first, but it can sometimes be a setup for a future fall. When people over praise you, it may be a way to create a false sense of security before they betray you. This tactic works because it catches you off guard when things suddenly go wrong.
You should also pay attention to body language, like a resentful look in someone’s eyes, which can reveal unspoken envy or bitterness. Sometimes, what people don’t say tells you more than their words ever could.
Envy plays a big role in backstabbing, and it’s dangerous because you often don’t notice it until it’s too late.
People may envy your success, skills, or position, and instead of dealing with their feelings, they might try to bring you down. If you’re not paying attention, their subtle attempts to sabotage you can escalate into bigger problems like gossip, power struggles, twisting words and deliberate harm to your reputation. By recognizing signs of envy early, you can protect yourself by setting boundaries or addressing the issue before it grows.
Workplace relationships are rarely as simple as they seem.
Beneath the surface, power, competition, and jealousy are constantly at play. People may act friendly but still have hidden agendas. This is why it’s important to stay aware and protect yourself. By learning to read between the lines, notice manipulation tactics, and recognize signs of envy, you can navigate workplace relationships with more confidence.