Practicing fairness in the workplace: Challenging manager favoritism

colleagues interacting in the office

Imagine you work for a company and you’re good at your job.

You do your work diligently, meet deadlines, and go the extra mile to help your team.

But then you realized something strange: your manager is paying more attention to a colleague who isn’t as qualified as you are and seems to be doing less work.

The more you pay attention, the more you realize that this colleague is getting preferential treatment. They’re always the first ones to get new projects, they’re being consulted on decisions that should be made by people with more experience, and they seem to have a personal relationship with your manager.

What do you do?

Signs of a manager practicing favoritism

For one, you feel like you’re being treated unfairly.

Additionally, if you see your manager socializing with specific employees outside of work, or if they’re constantly helping that same few with their work duties, that’s another sign of favoritism. If you suspect that your manager is playing favorites, speak up.

Challenging their behavior can be tough, but do what’s right for you and your career.

Discussing the issue with your boss
colleagues talking in a meeting room

Image Credits: businessinsider.com

If you’re feeling like you’re being unfairly treated at work, discuss the issue with your boss. But before you do, gather your evidence and plan out what you want to say.

When you bring the issue up, be sure to diplomatically state your case. It can be easy to come across as resentful but stay professional. And remember, you’re not accusing anyone of anything—you’re bringing up facts.

If your boss is receptive, he or she will be happy to discuss the issue with you and try to find a solution. However, if your boss is defensive or unwilling to listen, that’s a sign that you may need to plan your leave.

Taking action against biased decisions

If you’re the victim of your manager’s favoritism, it can be understandably difficult to take action. 

After all, this is the person who has the power to approve or deny your requests, and you don’t want to make things worse.

That said, you have a right to be treated fairly at work, and if you feel like you’re being discriminated against, there are steps you can take.

First, try to identify any unconscious biases that might be at play. These could be things like your manager favoring employees who share the same educational background or who share the same hobbies.

Once you’ve identified any possible biases, speak with your manager about your concerns. It’s possible that they’re not even aware of their bias, and a discussion could help to resolve the issue.

If speaking with your manager doesn’t lead to any changes, it might be time to escalate the issue to HR. Remember, you have a right to a fair and supportive workplace, and HR can help to ensure that you’re being treated fairly.

There’s no question that managers can wield a lot of power in the workplace. But what happens when they start playing favorites? If you feel like you’re being overlooked for promotions or assignments, and you know that it’s because your manager is playing favorites, take action. It’s not fair when someone abuses their power, and you don’t have to put up with a toxic work environment.

Read More...

Achieving the dream: How to be the boss everyone wants to work for

boss and employee at work

So you want to make a good impression on your team?

Following these tips will help you create a positive and productive work environment—and (hopefully) be the boss that everyone wants to work for.

Establish trust and respect

Start by establishing trust and respect.

People have to feel like they can trust you before they follow your lead. And respect is earned by being fair, consistent, and communicative.

Be sure to treat everyone with respect. Believe in yourself and your team, and always stand up for what’s right. And when there’s a mistake, own up to it.

Communicate openly and often

You want your team to feel like they can come to you with any question or concern, no matter how big or small.

The more open and communicative you are, the more they can trust and respect you. Make sure to schedule regular one-on-one meetings with your team members, and be sure to check in with them to see how they’re doing and what challenges they’re facing.

And if there’s something you need to share, do it promptly—no one likes feeling like they’re being kept in the dark.

Set expectations and provide feedback
giving feedback to a colleague

Image Credits: TLNT.com

Setting expectations for your team and providing feedback will help them understand what you’re looking for and how they can improve.

Make sure that your expectations are clear, reasonable, and achievable. Nobody wants to feel overwhelmed or undervalued, so be sure to set the bar at a level that everyone can reach.

When it comes time to provide feedback, be specific and actionable. Your employees can only improve if they know what they need to work on. And remember to give credit where it’s due—recognize your team’s successes, no matter how small.

Empower employees to act autonomously

This means giving them the freedom to make decisions without having to check with you first.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should just give your employees free rein. You should still provide guidance. But it’s wise to trust your employees to make decisions on their own.

This approach can lead to better decision-making because employees will take more ownership of their work. And it can also boost morale because employees will feel valued and authorized.

Show appreciation for individual efforts

Recognizing individual efforts can be done in several ways, such as through rewards, public recognition, or simply saying “thank you.”

When you take the time to show appreciation for what your employees do, it helps create a positive work environment where people feel appreciated. This, in turn, can lead to increased motivation and productivity.

Encourage a healthy work-life balance

This doesn’t mean that you have to offer unlimited vacation days or let people work from home every day, but it does mean being understanding when someone needs to leave early for a doctor’s appointment or take a mental health day off.

Remember that your employees are people, with lives outside of work. And when they’re happy, they’re more likely to be engaged at work. So do what you can to support your team in their efforts to maintain a healthy balance.

As we close, how can you make sure that you’re the boss everyone wants to work for? Here’s a quick recap before you go: establish trust, communicate openly, set clear expectations, give employees autonomy, show your appreciation, and walk the talk on a healthy work-life balance. Did we miss out on anything?

Read More...

5 Marriage-Killing Money Habits

Marriage beats having a partner on a long-term basis. I am no expert on love, but my goal is to make sure that you understand the financial obligations that you each bring to the table. Otherwise, arguments can occur. Arguments about money hamper many marriages. Do not let it happen to you!

#1: FIGHTING OVER WHAT’S MINE AND YOURS

Sometimes, couples split the bills or allocate a fair amount of cash and settle everything in an equitable manner. Each spouse can spend what they have left as they see fit when the bills have been covered. This process of splitting what’s mine from what’s yours can often build resentment. It also divides the spending power, which eliminates the financial value of marriage.

#2: COLLECTING DEBTS

From student loans to credit card bills, many people come to the altar with financial baggage. If one partner has a habit of incurring debt, the other can feel the burden. People in such situations may take some solace in knowing that debts brought into a marriage stay with the person who incurred them.

#3: PLAYING WITH POWER

Power plays occur in many ways such as controlling the allowance of the unemployed spouse and comparing oneself from a spouse who came from money. It is important that both partners cooperate as a team. Joint account offers greater access and transparency, which can aid the unbalanced power dynamic in your marriage.

#4: SPENDING HABITS

Personality can play a crucial role in discussions and habits about money. The age-old conflict between spenders and savers can play out in many ways. Many of us may display more than one of these characteristics at a given time but will typically revert to one main category. Know your spouse’s money personality and discuss your differences openly. Recognize bad spending habits and address them.

#5: LOANING YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS

Do you have a habit of loaning money to your friends and family members? Respecting each other’s goals, needs, and expectations can be especially tricky. For instance, your partner’s mom may need money because of a serious illness, or your sister just gave birth. You need to allocate your travel fund to the medical expenses instead.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

The joys (and sorrows) of having a bigger family often extend to your wallet.

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...

Should you get eyelash extensions for CNY 2023? Here’s what you need to know

eyelash extensions

So, you’re thinking of getting eyelash extensions for CNY 2023?

Extensions can be a great way to add length and volume to your lashes, but you should know a few things before making your decision.

Let’s explore them.

Are eyelash extensions safe?

Your safety should be the number one concern when getting lash extensions.

It’s okay as long as the lash artist you go to is certified and licensed. They should also be using products that are safe for your eyes and lashes.

Benefits of eyelash extensions

First, eyelash extensions can speed up your makeup routine.

No more fumbling with clumpy mascara. With extensions, your eyes will look amazing even without any of those on.

Furthermore, eyelash extensions can replace other eye makeup products too. If you’re not a fan of wearing eye shadow or liner, extensions can give you all the drama and definition you need without any extra fuss.

Third, eyelash extensions are customizable. You can choose the length, thickness, and curl of your extensions to create a look that’s perfect for you.

How to prep before the appointment
attaching fake eyelashes

Image Credits: aucklandlashandbrows.co.nz

Remember to shower before your appointment. Since you want to avoid getting your lashes wet after the session, it’s best to get yourself scrubbed before you head out.

Also, make sure you have a clean face. This means that you should remove all of your eye makeup, as well as any lotions or oils. If your lashes are coated in any of these products, the adhesive won’t stick correctly and the extensions will likely fall out prematurely.

Different types of eyelash extensions

Not all lash extension types are created equal—there are a few distinguishable types that you should be aware of before you make your decision.

Synthetic lashes are the most common type of lash extension, and they’re made from a variety of materials. They come in an assortment of lengths and thicknesses so you can customize your look.

Mink lashes are the next most popular type of lash extension made from actual fur. Thus, you can expect it to be lightweight and natural, though it may not sit well with animal advocates.

Silk lashes are another option. They’re made from silk or synthetic-based silk fiber, and somewhere between synthetic and mink lashes in terms of weight and price.

How to care for your eyelash extensions

When you finally have your new lash extensions on, know how to take care of them so they last as long as possible.

Here are a few tips:

  • Keep your lashes clean. Gently brush them with a lash brush or Q-tip every day to remove any dirt or debris.
  • Avoid wetting them for the first 48 hours after getting them done. This includes no sauna or swimming.
  • Avoid using mascara on your extensions, as this will make them brittle and more likely to fall out.
  • Use an eyelash curler gently on the tips of the extensions to help them stay in place.

If you’re on the fence about getting lash extensions, we hope this article has helped you make a decision. As with any beauty treatment, there are pros and cons so weigh them all before making a decision. If you decide that lash extensions are right for you, go get that appointment, and we hope you love your new look for the new year!

Read More...

Top Career Tips I Learned from Emily in Paris

After landing her dream job in Paris, American marketing executive Emily Cooper embraces her unpredictable new life while juggling work and romance. Its third season premiered last December 22, 2022, with Lily Collins as its Netflix Series lead.

Emily goes through many workplace challenges and is confronted with cultural differences as she navigates in the French work environment. Although some of her choices are questionable, here are some of the top career lessons I learned from Emily in
Paris.

#1: SPEAK UP

If you need to share your ideas, speak up! Do not wait for the opportunity to knock. When Emily did not agree with the sexist De L’Heure campaign, she took the initiative to share her thoughts to Mr. Antoine Lambert. People appreciate employees who are proactive and professional. Proactive employees think ahead and get ahead!

#2: THINK DIFFERENTLY

Being a person who thinks outside of the box is important in any line of work. For Emily, she impresses the head of a leading cosmetic brand with her unique Instagram posts. Applying creativity in your projects allows you to grow and to lead with futuristic lenses.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#3: NEVER GIVE UP

Emily’s perseverance and tenacity is an inspiration. She faces many situations and keeps pushing for what she wants. Her positive attitude wins her clients in the end. Although you cannot be positive in every situation, it helps to reframe your perspective to win over your clients. Connect with your potential clients and have them sign on board by not quitting the game.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Emilyinparistv

#4: ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING

Emily once booked for the wrong date and immediately thought of a solution to fix the situation. She said: “the good news and the better news – we are booked in with an up-and-coming chef tonight and we are all coming back here for the Zimmer launch together next year!” She handled the situation well.

Attitude can affect the way you overcome the toughest situations. In a world where things seem impossible, Emily makes it possible!

#5: TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK

Emily constantly reminds her boss Sylvie that they need to work well together to succeed. In one episode, Sylvie even corrects Emily and tells her that the French word for team is équipe, which does not have an “I” in it. However, Emily proves to Sylvie just how important it is to work as a team. Use the strengths of your co-workers as leverage to succeed together.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Emilyinparistv

#6: HAVE A GROWTH MINDSET

Emily embraces every opportunity thrown at her. She jumped on a chance to work in Paris, for starters! She actively seeks out increased responsibility and continues to say yes to challenging opportunities. You can incorporate the growth mindset into your own careers too. Let me end with a quote that champions the growth mindset.

“Individuals who believe their talents can be developed (through hard work, good strategies, and input from others) have a growth mindset. They tend to achieve more than those with a more fixed mindset (those who believe their talents are innate gifts).”

– Mindset Author Carol Dweck

Sources: 1 & 2

 

Read More...