New research from London University's Birkbeck College suggests that growing numbers of employees are reluctant to pass on new ideas or "tricks of the trade". They fear that doing so could harm their own career prospects.

The Birkbeck researchers point to two causes for this change in attitude. The `90s downsizing trend, combined with a growing tendency for individuals to be in charge of their own careers, has led to a rise in concern for self-protection. This is often expressed in "knowledge is power" behaviour.

The study questioned almost 1000 technical staff, and 20% said they believed it was not in their interest to share their ideas or skills.

Warned researcher Adrian Patch: "Organisations which have encouraged employees to manage their own careers are maybe going to start paying the price."

Time, then, to start researching team-building programmes.

Elliott Chase