Scoundrel

A good, old-fashioned, word. Not as harsh-sounding as criminal or villain. Not as kind as rogue.

There are scoundrels in the workplace and the sooner one learns that, the safer one's career. The scoundrels may be charming and competent - I've known some who could duplicate the demeanor of a choirboy - but when it comes to ethical conduct, there is a gap in their tape. They will deftly blackjack anyone who gets in their way, never miss a step, and be on time to joke about a television show over lunch.

Here is a key point: Not only is it important to be able to spot a scoundrel, it is equally conducive to your good health never to forget that the person is a scoundrel.

Because scoundrels behave properly until they don't.