Imposters aren’t always easy to spot. They’re well practiced at disguising the ugliness behind their smiling outer masks. Imposters are DUDs who know how to hide their flaws, cover up their true intentions, and trick people into believing in them. The sad fact is, the world–and probably your office–is full of imposters.

Recognizing imposters, and then steering clear of their negative influence, is a priority when you’re focused on being a WOW leader. Since leadership is anything but a solo endeavor, it relies upon relationship building, strategic collaborations, and team dynamics to be successful. Alliances with those of positive influence can truly help harness and strengthen team and personal growth. However, nothing break downs the flow of progress faster than an imposter with the power to sabotage that success.

Here are a few key traits that will help you identify an imposter:

• Two-faced: What you see on the outside isn’t what you get. An imposter often puts his best face forward while his other side does the dirty work. Manipulation, backstabbing, and other forms of deception are all in an imposter’s secret arsenal.
• Defensive: An imposter is basically living a lie, and a liar is always trying to cover her tracks. Being defensive about her words, actions, and decisions is par for the course of an imposter. She’s quick to make excuses, point fingers, and lay blame in order to save face.
• Secretive: When confronted or asked to communicate, an imposter is skilled at avoiding clear, direct answers. He’s secretive and aloof, never fully explaining the how’s or why’s about a situation.
• Inconsistent: While imposters may be intelligent, they’re not always as knowledgeable as they say they are. They like to talk a big game and put on a good show, but it’s an act that’s not backed up with action. They don’t always have the know-how, the means, or the intention to follow through, so their words aren’t consistent with their deeds.
• Unpleasant: Imposters may appear “friendly,” but they’re innately mean, and their unpleasant nature will eventually seep through the cracks.
• Unpredictable: Be careful around an imposter. They typically have an agenda, and will do what it takes to achieve their self-serving goals. Problem is, you never know what they’re capable of, or when they might be about to blow. If you’re stepping on their toes, they’ll kick back–so it best to keep your distance, duck, and get out of their way.

Most of us want to put our faith and trust in the goodness and best intentions of those who lead us, partner with us, and work with us. But it’s naive and dangerous to believe blindly in those who haven’t proven themselves to be consistently sincere. When it comes to recognizing an imposter, look for the clues which will ultimately reveal their true nature. If you smell a rat, it’s probably a rat. Trust your instincts, and beware the imposter.

–Sheri Staak