How to deal with Snitches
Snitches in the workplace are odious. They are the people who secretly tell the management that someone else has done something bad, often in order to cause trouble. In serious cases, this could even cause the loss of a job.
Every workplace seems to have them – the workplace snitch! So what can one do? From my experience, there are 5 golden rules, especially if you know who they are.
1. Limit their access to information – that means, don’t talk. Your words can easily be manipulated, so don’t give out information about your work or personal life.
2. If you work in an open space, keep drawers locked and don’t leave important documents out. Also ensure your computer has strong passwords and keep the browser history cleared.
3. Don’t discuss them as doing so lowers you to the level of the snitch by discussing him/her with other colleagues. An ‘eye for an eye’ will undoubtedly backfire, and being defensive might lead colleagues to believe you are actually guilty.
4. Exceed performance expectations by proving your value to the company. If your job performance has slackened, any accusation leveled against you could be the last straw.
Trust is a key component in the workplace, and just one problem employee can kill the atmosphere. Who wants to be friendly with people who might stab you in the back?
I’m not referring to whistle-blowers or exposure of illegal, dangerous or unethical behaviours. I’m talking about tattletales, who can make life a misery.
You need to retain strong self-esteem, self-confidence and professional courage to deal with snitches.
Have you had any experiences? Please share and let us know if you have any other advice!
Warmest wishes
Saskia
