Agent Provocateur

In Joseph Conrad's classic, _The Secret Agent_ 
(written in 1907) a foreign spy attempts to 
provoke the British government with an outrageous 
act.  It is the reaction -- not the triggering act 
itself -- that would do the most harm.

Workplace provocateurs attempt to goad you into a 
response -- typically emotional -- that causes 
lasting damage to yourself.  Since most workplaces 
do little (if anything) to identify provocation, 
this tactic is very effective.

Watch out!  The provocateur may not be a mere 
freelancer, but part of a group.  Some office 
groups include members that specialize in 
agitation.  If a particularly obnoxious employee 
seems to enjoy the protection of powerful people, 
be especially wary.  He may get away with frequent 
outbursts -- but someone who responds in kind may 
not be so lucky.

posted on 1182038430.73 by SiteAdmin