You know how they say that every parent has a favourite child? Touchy subject. Well, we won’t comment on that but more often than not, every boss has a favourite employee. Yes, these are the people getting all the promotions, paid holidays and invites to fancy work events while you’re struggling your way up the corporate ladder. Let’s be real- we hate these guys.
Favouritism is human nature and exists almost everywhere. However, it can lead to a toxic work environment and leave people feeling undervalued. By destroying relations amongst colleagues and causing resentment towards the job, it not only affects the workplace as a whole but also deeply influences an individual. People dealing with favouritism often feel demotivated, incapable and lose productivity. Here are a few tips to keep your calm while tackling favouritism at your workplace (so you don’t end up physically tackling your colleagues or your boss!)
Introspect
Before pointing fingers, it’s better to look at yourself and self-evaluate. Grab a thinking chair and ask yourself- “Am I performing to the best of my abilities?”, “Do I need to work on my skills?”, “Am I giving it my 100%?”, and a rather tough one, “Is the favourite employee actually deserving of all of those benefits?” Instead of channelling your emotions towards blaming your boss and resenting your colleagues, take time to review yourself, and your work ethic.
Face the Feedback
Brace yourself, it’s time to face the feedback. Asking your boss or manager for constructive feedback on your work can help you identify loopholes that you might be overlooking. It’ll also help you set goals and plan your work based on what’s expected of you. It’s to get their definition of ‘deserving’ so you can evaluate yourselves with appropriate indicators.
Be a Team Player
Even if you feel left out, don’t let it turn you into a lone wolf at work. Collaborate and support your colleagues whenever possible. Building strong relationships with your team can create a positive atmosphere and show your dedication to the overall success of the company. It’ll help build networks and enhance your experience on the job.
Talk it Out
If it’s been going on for a while and you’ve already done everything in your power to tackle the situation, it’s time to talk it out. Address the issue with the HR of your company, or knock at your boss’s door and discuss it professionally. Bring up instances which were unjust and carry evidence of your work and achievements. A little self-promotion, done tastefully, can draw positive attention to your strengths. Instead of bringing down other colleagues, it’s best to talk about your skills and what you bring to the table.
Refrain from discussing this with other employees. As satisfying as it may be, talking behind the back can escalate the matter and is regarded as highly unprofessional.
Reflect, Rethink
If things don’t change even after readdressing the problem and giving it time, maybe it’s time to reflect and rethink your professional path. Evaluating your overall growth and potential at your current workplace and weighing other options for yourself can help you narrow down the right path. Then, my friend, you have a tough decision to make! But it’s also a necessary one.
Office politics can be dirty and damaging, but it’s very important to deal with it professionally. Keep a positive demeanour and avoid burning out by overworking. We’ve all sympathised with Emily Charlton in ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ and demanded justice for the hardworking queen. Favouritism at the workplace is an employee’s worst nightmare and it sucks. We hope you find these tips helpful in standing up for yourselves and don’t let people unfairly push you down the ladder.
And well, if you’re the favourite employee, this is not for you, you go win that bread! In the end, we can just say, best of luck and hustle hard.
