A lot of us may think that piracy in the corporate world is stealthy and evil. But there's a lot of fun into it too! And hey, we're not talking about piracy of video CDs or literary material, we mean piracy of people who are doing so good in their fields that other companies offer them drool-worthy salaries and benefits just so they'd cross over the fence. Had this happened to you also?

If this had happened to you then you must be mighty lucky and unlucky at the same time. Piracy will give you enemies, because once you turn down an attractive offer, they will sour grape and tell you you're arrogant or something. Also, if you accept the offer, you will be labeled as greedy and a traitor. This is especially true if the company you're from has trade secrets which are entrusted to you. So before they put up all the danger flags in your career, guard yourself. This may seem like fighting for your name but it's also a very good time to think about what kind of career you really want.

First, decide what you want to be perhaps five or ten years from now. Base your initial decision to it. After that, weigh the pros and cons. Put them into writing if you can. Next, talk to a mentor or somebody you trust, and somebody whose opinion matters. Ask for advice and don't be defensive if they try to criticize you for thinking or acting a certain way.

Affiliation to certain companies will help you rise in your field as an individual but your performance will really speak for everything. They will speak louder than street banners which fakely congratulate a leader for something she or he has claimed to accomplish.