13 signs you're secretly the boss's favorite

You're chosen for all the plum projects.

When you're elected the boss's "fave" you often feel like you're on a roll and can't lose. One great project follows another.

"Your boss feels like you have a proven track record and is almost doubling down each time you get more responsibility, because you're a good bet," says Taylor.

They invite you to accompany them on out of town trips or to conferences.

Again this demonstrates deep respect for your talents, and a desire to share travel experiences or learning opportunities shows a commitment to furthering your professional development, says Kerr.

You have unique freedoms.

Unlike other employees, you may find that your schedule has less scrutiny or your work is not as micromanaged; you can speak up more without as much criticism; and so on, says Taylor.

"You may feel that, overall, you have more license to act a little more like a peer than a subordinate. The boss has empowered you with little censure and may even let you speak on their behalf at times. They trust your judgment."

You are their go-to person in a crisis.

If you are the first on your boss's radar for getting things done or dealing with a crisis, it means they have an enormous amount of trust in your abilities, Kerr explains.

You tend to be first in line for perks.

When there are extra tickets to a ball game or concert, does your boss always offer them to you first? "This is where you may begin to feel guilt; when your influence strays outside business acumen," says Taylor.

They ask your input more than they ask for anyone else's.

"Asking for input is a surefire sign that your boss respects your ideas, judgment, and wisdom," says Kerr. If you seem to be the only one they ask for input from, there's a good chance you're the favorite.

They let you be forthright.

Another sign: You can be more candid with your boss because they have more of an open mind to hear your constructive input, says Taylor. "If you speak on behalf of the staff, telling your boss he was harsh, he or she might actually listen; they respect your opinion."

They trust you more than everyone else, so they are more hands-off with you.

"If you get more latitude than other employees — more freedom to take risks, to work your own hours, and make your own decisions — that's an excellent sign that you're in your boss's good books," says Kerr.

They share a lot of personal information with you.

If your boss takes the time to share family details and personal information with you more so than with other employees, there's a good chance it's because you're their favorite, says Kerr.

"If you're the 'teacher's pet,' you'll have the coveted role of inner circle advisor on matters that typically go beyond your scope," adds Taylor. "Your boss values your insight and sees your contributions as exceeding your job function."

They give you the inside scoop.

Sharing key business information, particularly when it's delivered under the heading, "Don't tell anyone but..." or "Let's just keep this between you and I" means they view you as their most trusted confidante, Kerr explains.

They invite you on personal social events and include you in family gatherings.

Does your boss invite you to their home for Thanksgiving, or birthday parties, or family dinners? If you're the only one in the office who gets these invites, you're most likely the favorite.

You feel very comfortable taking risks.

If you feel there's little downside to taking smart risks, it may say something about how your boss treats you. "If you believe your boss will be supportive as long as you don't screw up in a big way, it's probably because your manager has given you a feeling of autonomy based on past successes," says Taylor.