5 Most Competitive Co-workers

Robert Half International

In a survey by Robert Half, almost half of senior executives said they believe employees are more competitive today than 10 years ago.

Why is it harder than ever to hear the strains of "Kumbaya" among workplace colleagues? The uncertain economy may be part of the problem: When people are concerned about job security, they are more apt to want to prove their worth to employers, and the pressure to perform can result in employee rivalries.

While it's true that a bit of healthy competition among staff members can increase motivation and productivity, too much tension can stand in the way of collaboration -- and good team results.

Consider these five familiar workplace competitors and ways to deal with them when working together: