What do you do if your boss in the hospitality industry shows favoritism?

1 Assess Objectively

Before taking any action, take a step back and critically evaluate the situation. Observe if the favoritism is isolated or a recurring pattern. Consider whether the favored employees are receiving benefits based on merit or personal bias. It's crucial to differentiate between a boss who supports hardworking individuals and one who is genuinely biased. Reflect on your own performance as well. Could there be areas for you to improve that might change your boss's perception? This self-reflection can be enlightening and might even reveal that what seemed like favoritism is actually a fair reward for hard work.

2 Open Dialogue

Communication is key in any workplace. If after careful consideration you believe favoritism is an issue, consider having a calm and respectful conversation with your boss. Choose an appropriate time and setting, and express your concerns without making accusations. Use "I feel" statements to describe how the situation affects you and your work. Be prepared to give examples, but ensure they are factual and not based on assumptions. This approach shows professionalism and can open the door to better understanding and resolution.

3 Seek Support

If a direct conversation with your boss doesn't seem like a viable option or doesn't lead to change, look for support within your organization. This could mean speaking with a human resources representative or a trusted supervisor. When you seek support, present your case clearly and provide examples of the favoritism you've observed. Ensure that you're seeking a solution that will improve the work environment for everyone, not just airing grievances.

5 Evaluate Options

Consider all possible options for addressing the situation. If internal resolution seems unlikely, reflect on whether the issue is significant enough to warrant looking for employment elsewhere. Sometimes, the culture of a workplace may not align with your values and seeking a new opportunity could be the best move for your career. However, it's important to weigh this decision carefully and consider the potential consequences of leaving your job.

6 Stay Professional

Regardless of the outcome, maintain a high level of professionalism. Continue to perform your duties to the best of your ability and treat all colleagues with respect. By doing so, you demonstrate your commitment to your role and to the hospitality industry as a whole. Staying professional helps protect your reputation and ensures that you're part of the solution, not part of the problem.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?