Theory: They Use Spies Against You

Theory: They Use Spies Against You

In a sick organization there are many types of people: the bullies that love to give others trouble, those that keep their mouths shut, those that play both sides against the middle, the political appointees that do not have to do much, the spies, the "slaves," the "token" people, the "pretty" people that are loved by many, the older ones who help others, the "jokesters" kept on, one or more "troublemakers," etc.

The power people of the sick organization maintain their spies which can come in many forms: A person appointed to assist you, a volunteer, a student/intern, those of the opposite sex, older workers nearing retirement, your life partner, those you thought were friends, etc. They all do the same -- spy on you for those in power in exchange for something in return. Their price can be a lax working environment, help on their studies/degree, possible promise of a full-time job, extra recognition, a quicker divorce settlement, extra benefits, trips, help to make sure they get their retirement, protection from lay-off, etc. Also retired military who want extra income without much work can be spies; they are used to taking orders from above and not thinking much about the orders.

How do you recognize them? The lowly worker who has the ear of the big boss, the worker who comes and goes as he wishes, the worker who spends his day visiting rather than working, the too eager volunteer that follows you everywhere, the pretty female who flirts with you, the nosy one who wants to know how everything works, the buddies that play tennis with the boss--- all could be spies. Another way to recognize them is that they do not appear to have ANY job worries like the rest of the staff.

Once you determine the identity of the spies, then you can start feeding them information you want to get back to the higher powers, or you can just put your information into the rumor mill where it will get to many. You never want to tell all the secrets of how you do your job so they can easily replace you. You can tell them minor problems that need fixing, some of your plans if you feel threatened, that you are willing to leave if the deal is good, and various other minor things, etc. Any major information/deals should be done direct with the powers of the sick organization.

Other spying can be done by getting copies of your emails, etc., and recordings of your phone calls. Various organizations may do one or both without telling you. Never put critical information (any personal or job information you want to keep private) in an email done through your organization's computers, or a call made from their phones, or through a wireless network that might be intercepted. Also remember that phones can now take pictures of you and record your words. When in doubt, do not let it (your secret/opinion) out. You should always act like someone is looking/listening over your shoulder; they are.

Never believe a spy at your job or his boss. If you are making a deal get it in writing, otherwise there is no real deal. Many find out too late that trusting the word of someone in a sick organization just does not work. Unless it is written down (or recorded) it is not said, and cannot be proved.

Adrian R. Lawler, Ph.D. ,    (C) 2012 --