Finding Fairness: Navigating Perceived Favouritism in the Workplace
Have you ever been part of a team where someone seems to effortlessly climb the ladder of success, getting only positive attention of the boss? I certainly have. No matter what my colleague did or said, our boss beamed at him and couldn’t fault him. This special connection also protected my colleague from extra work he didn’t want to do like helping me when I was still new and got overwhelmed with work at some point. So much for teamwork.
While personal connections are inevitable, favouritism in the workplace can leave a bitter taste, eroding individual well-being and poisoning team spirit. This article delves into the complex world of favouritism, offering you the tools to distinguish it from healthy relationships and navigate its potential consequences.
Understanding Relationships
The intricate dynamic between leaders and their team members is known as Leader-Member Exchange (LMX). High-LMX relationships are characterized by trust, frequent interaction, and open information sharing. Conversely, low-LMX relationships have limited interaction and trust and information sharing is limited. It is important to understand that these relationships naturally evolve, starting with lower LMX and gradually progressing towards higher LMX as trust and understanding deepen.
Birds of a feather: When Similarities Foster Connection
Shared experiences and characteristics act as magnetic forces, drawing people together. Imagine joining a diverse team where only your supervisor speaks your mother tongue or shares your passion for the great outdoors. These commonalities create a comfortable space for interaction, potentially leading to a high-LMX connection. However, it’s crucial to remember that high LMX doesn’t automatically translate to favouritism. It’s simply a natural human tendency to gravitate towards those who resonate with us.
Unmasking the True Face of Favouritism
Distinguishing true favouritism from a blossoming high-LMX relationship requires keen observation and a broader perspective. Is your boss consistently showering opportunities on certain individuals without offering clear explanations or transparent reasoning? Is it okay for one person to come in late while others face disciplinary consequences for the same? Does our boss go out smoking with one person all the time while the rest of the team keep working? If this is the case, these patterns are likely to create a noticeable imbalance within the team, significantly impacting career progression and overall dynamics? If decisions lack transparency and seem to disproportionately benefit specific individuals, then favouritism might be hiding behind the friendly mask and creating damage.
The Ripple Effect: When Fairness Erodes
Beyond the formal employment contract lies an unwritten agreement, a “psychological contract” built on expectations and implicit promises. Favouritism can shatter these unspoken understandings, breeding feelings of unfairness, resentment, and demotivation. Imagine the frustration of consistently putting in your best effort, only to see recognition and opportunities bypass you without explanation. This can impact not only your motivation but also your overall well-being and performance.
Taking Charge of Your Experience
Before you pack your bags and march towards the exit, or worse, succumb to a victim mentality, it’s crucial to engage in some honest self-reflection. Have you unintentionally distanced yourself from your supervisor? Has your performance been consistently meeting expectations? Addressing these internal questions before taking outward action can provide valuable insights. If you’ve addressed these concerns internally but still feel put on the side-lines, consider a respectful conversation with your supervisor. Seek clarification on decision-making processes and opportunities for advancement. Remember, communication is key, so approach the dialogue with a calm and open mind. Additionally, seeking advice from a trusted colleague or mentor can offer valuable perspective and support. Remember that good communication is key for fruitful relationships.
