Idea snatchers

Life couldn't be better. While sitting in the can, a moment of genius hits you and you come with an idea that'll put Einstein to shame. You can't wait for the boss to arrive.

However, in a moment of friendly banter, you discuss the idea with your next-cubicle neighbour. Before you know it, the idea has been outlined propagated to the boss by your 'friendly' colleague.

Welcome to the world of workplace robbery.

This one thrives on stealing ideas, reports and any evidence of genius, even if it's an idea written on a used toilet paper.

Counterattack: Complaining to the boss is never the solution here. Nor is confronting the thief.

The best thing to do here is to restrict your conversation with this kind of toxic co-worker and keep all ideas from him or her. Approaching the boss diplomatically might also help, feels Agarwal.

"The genesis of an idea, its application and its expanse can only be understood and explained by the person who initially thought of it. As such, if you were to approach your boss and expound the whole thought to him, he would surely know it was your idea as only you would know it in its entirety," he says.