How to deal with favouritism at work? Isn't it unfair? What should one do?

Ans:

Hi Rushilesh.

The best advice is ‘Ignore Them’.

It is human tendency to be jealous and that's what your colleagues are feeling.

Since they can't compete with you on skills, they are using these unethical means to distract you.

Remain focused on your job and don't let your good performance slip.

Keep your manager in the loop about the office politics so that s/he can back you if things get worse.

Ans: Dear Nitisha,

I do not know much about your boss, however, in order to get respect one should be able to give respect by proper conduct and behavior.

Ans: Dear

There are enough and more interesting problems to solve in life...focus on them.

Build emotional resilience...All the best.

Ans: It’s common in corporate settings for certain people to thrive through social politics, but that doesn’t mean it’s fair or that you have to put up with it indefinitely. While keeping a minimum interaction with these individuals is a healthy boundary, it might also be time to think about how you can navigate these situations more strategically, without letting them affect your mental peace.

One approach could be to shift your focus from trying to understand why management might be biased to figuring out how you can position yourself better within the organization. Sometimes, it’s not about playing the same game as those toxic coworkers but about creating your own narrative. Instead of engaging with the drama, focus on building strong alliances with people who appreciate your work and values. Even if management seems biased, finding key people who recognize your worth can help you stay grounded and give you a sense of support.

At the same time, it’s crucial to recognize that you cannot control how others behave, but you can control how you respond. If you feel manipulated or undermined, documenting these situations can be helpful, especially if it ever escalates to a point where you need to defend yourself to HR or management.

Ultimately, it might also be worth reflecting on whether this work environment is the right fit for you long-term. Toxic environments can be exhausting, and if the culture consistently rewards those who engage in gossip and manipulation, it might not align with your values. Considering whether there are other opportunities within or outside the company where you feel more supported and respected could be an important step.

If staying in this environment is what you choose, focusing on your strengths, maintaining your professionalism, and seeking support from trusted colleagues can help you manage these challenges more effectively. You deserve to work in a place where your skills and contributions are recognized without needing to engage in toxic dynamics.