+

Cookies on the Business Insider India website

Business Insider India has updated its Privacy and Cookie policy. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the better experience on our website. If you continue without changing your settings, we\'ll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on the Business Insider India website. However, you can change your cookie setting at any time by clicking on our Cookie Policy at any time. You can also see our Privacy Policy.

Close
HomeQuizzoneWhatsappShare Flash Reads
 

13 signs you're secretly the boss's favorite

Oct 14, 2015, 20:30 IST

Tech Hub/flickr
Tech Hub/flickrAre you treated better than everyone else?

Favoritism is alive and well in the workplace.

Advertisement

"Given the complexities involved in relationships at work and the myriad of factors that determine how much we like someone or respect their talents, it's simply human nature that we are going to, no matter how subtly, and despite our best intentions, play favorites," says Michael Kerr, an international business speaker and author of "The Humor Advantage."

Lynn Taylor, a national workplace expert and the author of "Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant: How to Manage Childish Boss Behavior and Thrive in Your Job," agrees and says there's often a fine line between bosses who appreciate an employee's good work and want to empower the person with more projects, and bosses who favor that employee to the detriment of others.

"If bosses are brazen in practicing favoritism, they can seriously hurt team morale and increase turnover - not to mention cause legal trouble by creating a hostile work environment," Taylor explains.

Plus, she says, the more you're singled out and given special treatment, the more risk associated with securing the cooperation you need from your team. "It can put an overall strain on your productivity because your work should always be the focus," Taylor explains. "Your office is not a popularity contest - and when it is, your days of glory can be fleeting."

Advertisement

If you suspect you're being favored, take a second to feel flattered then stay humble, remain professionals, and talk to your boss if things get out of hand.

Here are 13 signs you're the boss's favorite:

You are subscribed to notifications!
Looks like you've blocked notifications!
Next Article