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Book Carole "Carole was inspirational - the energy & enthusiasm was quite unique."
Mike Derrick, Chair East Sussex, Brighton & Hove Registered Care Homes Association
Motivational Speaker Carole Spiers on the dangerous,
'secret addiction' of gambling during office hours
The gambling addiction is notoriously hard to recognise. Unlike other addictions, it shows no obvious symptoms, and for this reason, compulsive gamblers are able to keep it secret from family, friends and colleagues - which they often do for long periods, while their debts often spiral disastrously out of control.
Managers who suspect an employee of being a gambling addict are, however, restricted in what they can do to help - unless they have, for instance, evidence of the office computer being misused for gambling, or more seriously, the firm’s credit card account. Otherwise, any mention of the subject may be classed as wrongful accusation, with proof very difficult to establish.
Borrowing cash - or acting as the office book-maker
It is possible, however, for managers to note certain habits which impact on work performance, and which add up to a strong suggestion of gambling addiction. This would entitle them to investigate the matter via a discreet and constructive interview.
Pointers to gambling activity are signs of the sleeplessness and anxiety that goes with what is often a night activity. Or frequent lateness and/or absences, including the give-away tendency to take single days off sick. There may be also signs of furtive behaviour, such as hiding betting-slips, or making phone calls when the office is unoccupied.
Then there is the search for a likely cause for the problem. Is the person in an unhappy marriage or partnership? Do you know whether gambling addiction runs in the family? Or might the behaviour be trying to compensate for a missed promotion?
Finally there is the eternal need for money - cadging and wheedling the odd pound, or dollar, from anyone who'll listen. And sometimes the dangerous course of turning to betting in the office, desperately trying to win back what they've lost. But that’s no game for amateurs.
Signs of gambling addiction - summary
- Gambling is the secret addiction, easy to hide from friends and family
- Employers have to be circumspect about voicing their suspicions
- Some signs can add up to a suggestion of addiction, justifying an enquiry
Another key insight from Carole Spiers, International Leading Authority on Corporate Stress,
Motivational Speaker and BBC Broadcaster.
