A BPO team member takes credit for your work. How do you address this situation professionally?

If a team member takes credit for your work, address it professionally by first gathering evidence of your contribution. Assess whether it was intentional or a misunderstanding. Then, have a private conversation with the individual, politely but firmly pointing out the oversight and suggesting a solution, such as joint acknowledgment of your efforts. If the issue persists, escalate it to a manager, focusing on the impact on teamwork. Stay calm and professional throughout, and learn from the experience by ensuring roles are clear and communication is improved in future projects.

I always make it a practice to journal my work. This practice began when I realized that management or others often forget my contributions to the team. In many cases, my appraisals indicated that I did not contribute significantly to team performance. Journaling your tasks is consistently beneficial and ensures you maintain a record of your work. You can also share this journal with your supervisors regularly. Journaling helps keep a clear record of what you've done, which can be really useful if there's ever confusion about who did what. By noting down your tasks, timelines, and any challenges you faced, you create a reliable reference that can back you up and help resolve any misunderstandings.

Maintain professionalism and avoid any actions that could be perceived as retaliatory or unprofessional. Focus on finding constructive solutions and continue to contribute positively to the team.

Best is to address this immediately in a private 1on1 meeting. I have experienced it myself and this way is simply the most effective one as this person is now aware that stealing ideas or put other feathers on your own coat is simply not tolerated in future and will have consequences. To show awareness is key.

Imagine someone taking credit for your work? Nothing can be more infuriating in a workplace. All your hard work, and someone else claiming ownership. But will anger or frustration help the situation? You might find it difficult to communicate clearly when you’re upset. Don't react impulsively. Take time to consider how you’ll respond. Since you have evidence of your work, proving your contribution will be easier. When you’re calm and collected, you can communicate effectively and demonstrate professionalism.

Having a one-on-one chat with the person is usually the best way to handle things. It creates a space for open and honest dialogue without dragging others into it too soon. By really listening to their side of the story, you set the stage for finding a solution that works for both of you. Just keep calm and stay professional during the conversation. The aim is to solve the problem, not make it worse. If things don’t improve or the conversation doesn’t go as hoped, it might be time to bring in a supervisor or a neutral mediator. But try everything you can to resolve it directly first before involving anyone else.