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Dear Quota Team,

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I sell enterprise software, and our accounts are often worked by more than one rep since deals touch multiple regions. That overlap has created tension with a colleague who seems more interested in undermining me than collaborating.

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In a recent pipeline review, my manager blindsided me by asking about a “client concern” I’d never heard of. Later I learned my colleague had told him the client was unhappy with how I was handling the deal. That wasn’t true — the client is moving forward — but it planted doubt. Since then, I’ve heard through the grapevine that this rep has been whispering to leadership that I’m “dropping the ball” on other accounts.

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My numbers are fine, but I’m worried the damage is being done behind closed doors. How do I defend myself without looking paranoid or accusatory?

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Second-guessed in Michigan

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Dear Second-guessed,

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Don’t let whispers go unchallenged, but also don’t frame it as office drama. Instead, focus on visibility. Share clear, proactive updates with your manager on deal progress, client sentiment, and next steps — ideally supported by emails or call notes. This creates a paper trail that undercuts any narrative of “dropping the ball.” If the colleague continues undermining you, calmly address it with your manager. That way, you look professional, not paranoid — and your results remain your loudest proof.