How To Handle Favoritism And Power Tripping In The Workplace

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Have you ever felt relieved leaving the school bullies behind only to get frustrated the moment you start your first job? Why? Because the harsh reality is they exist in the workplace too. Favoritism and bullies are such a cliché, but they are everywhere.

A boss can bully the employees in the form of power tripping. They flaunt the authority given to them. They can demean subordinates in front of colleagues. They can also secretly sabotage their teammate’s work just because that particular person is not their favorite.

These types of behaviors can degrade the reputation of the company, damage employee morale, and affect a person’s mental and emotional state. A lot of efforts can also go to waste with a boss who doesn’t know how to give proper judgment and fair treatment.

Dealing With A Power-Tripping Boss

Look For Causes

 

Determine why your boss is overexerting his or her power. Your company might be under fire, and your boss might fear for his or her job. In most cases, bosses who like abusing their power has low self-esteem. They feed their lack of confidence through picking on their subordinates, which makes them feel a specific power over people.

Reach Out To Your Colleagues

Feel the vibe. Maybe you are not the only victim, and that could mean strength in numbers. If you are sure you aren’t the only victim, talk to your colleagues about your boss.

Confront Your Boss

Talking to a person with whom you have a problem is, most of the time, the ideal way. In cases of power tripping, it is best to confront your boss. Instead of speculating, be honest and give instances when you felt your boss abused his or her power. Try to say what you think, how his or her actions affect you, and how you want him or her to treat you.

Take It Up A Notch

If confronting your boss does not give you answers, maybe it’s time to consider talking to your manager or the HR. As much as possible, present facts and avoid giving personal opinions. Provide proofs to back up everything you are trying to say.

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Dealing With Favoritism At Work

Most companies, including the higher-ups, tend to ignore the issue of favoritism. It can create an unpleasant aura among colleagues if it is not dealt with properly.

Avoid Gossip

Gossiping about the situation will never be of any help. Your colleagues’ comments might cloud your judgment, and this might result in an unpleasant work atmosphere.

Be Professional

Work as if your boss is not playing favorites. Go with your usual routine and be professional. In this case, the worst thing you could do is react disagreeably, which would put you in your boss’s negative side.

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Maintain A Positive Mindset

Staying optimistic is easier said than done. In an environment where you feel your efforts are useless, it’s hard to stay motivated. Always keep in mind that the quantity and quality of your output still reflect on your behavior. Try to have a pep talk with yourself and maintain a positive outlook.

If you think you have done all the necessary measures, that’s the time you will get an answer. At the same time, your boss’s reaction should help you decide if your job is worth keeping or not. After all, it’s yourself, and your mental state should always be the priority.