It shows up on the breakroom counter. On a desk. On the copier. The anonymous—or not-so-anonymous—note dripping with sarcasm and fake politeness. “Some of us clean up after ourselves…” “Maybe next time you could…” On the surface, it looks harmless. In reality, it’s poison. Every note like that is a jab delivered without accountability. It stirs resentment, fuels gossip, and creates an undercurrent of hostility that lingers long after the paper’s tossed in the trash. Instead of solving problems, the note writer multiplies them—turning small irritations into team-wide tension. The trap for leaders is ignoring it. Brush it off, and you’ve just told everyone that side-door attacks are acceptable. Confront it poorly, and you risk looking petty or thin-skinned. Either way, your credibility takes the hit while the note writer keeps sharpening their pen. In this episode, I’ll show you how to shut down the behavior without escalating the drama. You’ll learn how to confront the passive-aggressive note writer directly, set a standard that restores respect, and make it clear that if someone has something to say—they say it face-to-face. Because leadership isn’t about tolerating backhanded communication. It’s about setting the tone for courage and clarity in every interaction.
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