It’s not easy when your boss shows partiality to someone at work – and it’s not you. It can leave you feeling like you’re invisible. Plus, it’s disheartening to see another employee, who may seem undeserving, get attention or privileges that aren’t available to you. But before you go stomping into your boss’s office, demanding answers, ask yourself these three questions:
1. Is the favoritism real or imagined?
Your boss might very well be playing favorites, or he or she just might feel more connected to another employee. For instance, perhaps the two worked together in the past or simply have more in common. Maybe their kids go to the same school or they’re both passionate about bicycling. Common ground is a strong foundation for a relationship.
If that’s the case, then try to get to know your boss better. Perhaps you two have more in common than you think. If not, don’t push it and try to kiss up. You were hired to do a job, not compete for the boss’s attention.
2. Are you being realistic?
Everyone has favorites, even you. So why is a certain employee a favorite? If that employee is putting in longer hours or delivering better work than you, it’s no wonder, then, that they are the favorite. Put yourself in your boss’s shoes. If you had an employee you knew you could depend on to deliver 100% of the time, than that person would probably be your favorite, too. So perhaps it’s time for you to step up to the plate a little more and do a better job.
3. Is the favoritism hindering your career?
A boss playing favorites can be kind of annoying. But if you enjoy your Miami job otherwise and feel you are fairly compensated, then you probably need to get over it. However, if favoritism is actually having a negative impact on your career – for instance, seriously hindering your productivity, relationships with co-workers, work ethic, or overall happiness at work – then it may be time to break out your resume and get started on your exit strategy.
If that’s the case and you’d like to explore some excellent jobs in Miami, Future Force can help. We work with hundreds of leading employers throughout Miami and can offer you access to a variety of jobs you won’t find advertised anywhere else!