(careerbuilder) Crime in the workplace may be more prevalent than you suspect -- and it doesn't have anything to do with missing office supplies or petty cash. In a recent Robert Half International survey, 29 percent of employees interviewed said that a co-worker has at some point taken credit for their ideas. And those who steal the limelight from their more deserving colleagues may be getting away with it. More than half (51 percent) of those whose ideas have been nabbed said they did nothing in response. The competitive nature of today's workplace may be contributing to idea theft. The uncertain business climate leaves many feeling desperate to impress management in an effort to prove their value to the company or position themselves for a promotion. But getting credit for your workplace contributions is essential, especially now, when everyone's performance is being carefully evaluated. If you think you've been the victim of idea theft, don't be a doormat. If colleagues know they can get away with taking credit for your work, they may view you as a pushover and continue to steal your ideas. In addition, if you are not being given proper credit for your accomplishments, you will be inaccurately evaluated during performance reviews, potentially affecting your career advancement. And feeling unappreciated for your work could eventually cause you to become dissatisfied in your current position. How can you avoid this scenario? Start by sharing your ideas directly with management and other colleagues, especially early on, so everyone knows the concept originated with you. You might, for example, use regular meetings with your supervisor to give status updates on your ideas and the progress you've made to implement them. (view source for how to respond)

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