I’d thank them right away for seeing it fit to bring up the idea at this meeting and continue to build on it. Through my contribution I’d assert that I shared this idea in an earlier conversation. After the meeting I’d have a quick chat with him/her, giving them an opportunity to explain why they thought it necessary to share the idea without crediting it. How they handle this part would def define our working relationship moving forward.

?? Handle office politics with care and diplomacy to maintain a positive environment. ?? Stay assertive without appearing arrogant when standing by your points. ? Pose thoughtful questions to challenge ideas without confrontation. ?? This approach helps you subtly assert ownership over the idea. ?? It also allows you to gauge the other person’s comfort and preparedness on the topic.

As President Truman said 'It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit' Of course it's irritating when it happens, but it's important to apply emotional intelligence and not rise to it in the meeting, follow it up afterwards with the individual involved.

Always have a paper trail. If and when it comes time to prove you did the work instead of the someone taking credit for your work, written proof it is your work and not theirs should stop them in their tracks.