As any reader of this blog knows, one of my early arch-enemies and ultimately my inspiration into finding out more about workplace bullying was the Sleazy Secretary at the Radio Station From Hell, also known as Miss Buttock.

No pun intended, but her damage to the stations bottom line was as huge as hers.

Because she was the owners lover, spy, and confidante, she felt secure in insulting co-workers, listeners, and even important clients.

If a salesperson or on-air talent appeared to be succeeding, she would work almost non-stop to destroy them. This is typical of anyone who fears their own abilities are not up to snuff.

One salesperson was billing nearly $25,000 a month while working mother's hours. Miss Buttock was jealous of her success and schedule. Of course, because she was unable to have children herself, she had little empathy for someone that did.

If someone called with a message for the salesperson, it was either undelivered, misplaced, or the caller would be informed that she hadn't "been seen for DAYS"...

One day the salesperson came in to find Buttock going through her trash. She claimed that she was looking for the weekend's lottery numbers...

The salesperson cursed her out, and then quit.

Similar incidents, including my own departure ultimately cost the business around $250,000.

Many wondered aloud why the owner, a renowned cheapskate, would allow this to happen. After all, sex can only be worth so much...

The real answer was found on Bullyonline.org.

These kind of relations are often built on power, not passion. The two are not so much lovers, but admirers of each others tactics. Thus when a skilled sales rep or air talent left, the admiration of the owner for the devious way she drove out people outweighed the financial, personal, and professional costs.

These kind of folks also see such devious dealings as somehow being more mature and sophisticated.

It's also a sign of psychopathy. The social psychopath will continue to act out on their urges to harm others and ultimately themselves without pause until the situation collapses into chaos. This is also a source of gratification to them... 

The bottom line is that most people know what they are doing, and either avoid them or try to play their game to their own advantage.