Dear Joyce – The Boss Saboteur

I think that my boss is purposefully sabotaging the unit environment. She's playing two staff members off against each other. What can I do?

Sincerely,

Help!

Normally divide-and-conquer is used against enemies, not friends.

Are you one of the people being played? If yes, going to your boss and letting her know that you're on to her game will get you nowhere – except in deeper trouble. Instead, you should approach your fellow victim. Explain to her/him what you think is going on, and figure out a way not to let the boss divide you. Hopefully, you'll come up with a plan, so the boss will stop (or direct her energies to a new set of pawns).

If you're not involved, you can either choose to sit back and watch, or you can get involved. Talk to the two parties and tell them what you think is going on. As someone on the outside, you're impartial and can see what those on the receiving end of the games can't. Hopefully, you'll be able to convince them not to play.

Good luck!