Covert actions by a coworker. Identification, consequences, solutions

Saboteurs cannot survive if overt communication exists. Open lines of communication discourage unethical behavior and make it difficult for saboteurs to cause problems. Managers must learn to confront problems directly and then move on. Employees should be encouraged to practice direct, open communication and not to repeat rumors and gossip. Also, it is important to provide overt support for overt communication and behavior. Supporting directness is one way to discourage sabotage. Everyone involved needs to remember that it is easy to blame the messenger, but saboteurs cannot continue to practice deceit if others are not willing to listen to and encourage their continuous gossip.