TAIPEI (TVBS News) — "Subtle sabotage" in the workplace, often more challenging to address than overt bullying, has emerged as a significant concern, according to a U.S. research organization. These behaviors, including micromanagement and isolation, can significantly undermine employee morale and productivity.
In Taiwan, new recruits frequently report being overlooked for assignments, as supervisors often favor team members they are more familiar with. This issue resonates with workplace coach Ginger, who experienced depression and frustration when she first entered the workforce, blaming herself for being sidelined.
A study by Eagle Club, a private network for senior female leaders in law and business, reveals that supervisors who frequently "summon" employees for progress checks are engaging in surveillance-like behavior, fostering self-doubt among workers.
A key aspect of "subtle sabotage" is "gaslighting." Labor relations expert Wu Hung-yi (吳虹儀) explained that the term originated from a 1938 British play and describes how perpetrators use subtle actions to make victims dependent on them.
The absence of opportunities from supervisors may also signal cold violence. However, Ginger pointed out that the pressure of key performance indicators (KPIs) might lead supervisors to overlook employees' feelings, which could be misconstrued as cold violence.
Wu advised that identifying subtle sabotage requires observing whether actions have a clear intent. Experts suggest maintaining records of messages or emails as evidence or creating a trail of any wrongdoing for future reporting. Meanwhile, Chen recommended management should not dismiss employees' feelings as oversensitivity, as this could harm the organization.
To foster a healthy work environment, both supervisors and subordinates should treat each other kindly, avoiding becoming the perpetrators they once disliked.
