Have you ever faced to ‘#favoritism’ in the workplace?

I did… maybe many times but one is significant… 🫤

Early in my career, I experienced a situation that I now recognize as workplace favoritism. Despite working hard and performing well, I noticed that certain colleagues consistently received more exciting projects, recognition, and opportunities.

At the time, I lacked the #experience and #confidence to address the issue effectively. Instead of #confronting it, I chose to leave the team… a decision I believed was my only option then🙄

Looking back now, with the #wisdom gained over my 30 year professional journey, I realize I would have approached things differently. While favoritism can harm #morale and #productivity, I now understand that addressing it constructively and professionally can lead to growth for everyone involved.

If I had opportunity to go back to that moment, I would have taken the following steps:

🌟 Document Specific Instances: Identifying clear examples of favoritism, focusing on its impact on the team rather than personal complaint.

🌟 Engage in Open Dialogue: Requesting a private meeting with my manager to have an honest, calm, and solution-focused conversation.

🌟 Propose Inclusive Solutions: Suggesting transparent criteria for assigning projects and recognition, or creating forums where all team members’ contributions are discussed and celebrated.

Over the years, I have learned that tackling such challenges with professionalism and empathy often leads to positive change, even when the issue feels deeply personal. Leaders can sometimes be unaware of how their actions come across, and honest feedback can help having meaningful improvements.

🎯To anyone feeling overlooked or discouraged in similar situations: consider how you can raise your concerns with clarity and confidence. Your voice matters, and highlighting fairness is essential for both personal and organizational success.

❓What about you? What strategies have you used to address favoritism or inequity in the workplace?