Workplace Sabotage: Who's At Risk

Employees in the United States shed over 663,000 jobs in March. As the jobless numbers climb, how far would you go to preserve your job?

CBS News correspondent Priya David sat down with Early Show co-anchor Harry Smith to share an alarming new workplace trend.

Since the recession began in December of 2007, 5.1 million jobs have disappeared.

David hit the streets to talk with workers and experts about a certain office villain that may be on the rise.

With the economy down, experts say backstabbing in the workplace is up. Did you ever get stabbed?

"Oh, yes," says Jeanne Hartman.

"The reason for that is that, frankly, fear is on the rise, and people's survival instincts are on the rise, " says Katherine Crowley, co-author of "Working With You Is Killing Me."

According to Crowley, there's one type of employee most at risk.

"It's often the new kid on the block," she explains. "You know, eager to make friends, eager to get along with everyone, and therefore susceptible to being seduced by someone who may not have the best intentions."

She says workplace backstabbers are easy to spot.

"They're really friendly to your face. They'll do anything for you. But then when she gets around other people, or he, it's a complaint," Hartman added.

Crowley says to trust your instincts. If someone warns you about an enemy, pay attention.

"Someone says, watch your back with Allen, or you know, Susie has a little bit of an edge to her. You want to listen to them," Crowley said.

Stand up for yourself. But, she warns, always remember to "Take the high road. You don't actually want to try to get in a fighting match with the saboteur."

The bottom line is, do great work and don't be afraid to take credit for it. Let the bosses know if someone really is trying to undermine you. Your good performance should outshine any bad rumors.