We’ve all been in situations where the boss has a favorite. It’s frustrating to feel underresourced and underrecognized while someone else is getting all the attention. Ironically, though, it can be just as challenging to realize that you’re the boss’s new “pet.”
Being the Boss’s Favorite Is Great, Until It’s Not
We’ve all been in situations where the boss has a favorite. It’s frustrating to feel under-resourced and under-recognized, while someone else is getting all the attention. Ironically, though, it can be just as challenging to realize that you’re the boss’s new “pet.” Teammates can start to resent you. Your objectivity and ability to think independently may fade. Your boss’s detractors may even regard you as no more than a stooge. You can’t just keep your head down and wait things out — you need to be intentional about protecting your own reputation as well as your career trajectory. Three tactics can help you endure your stint in the spotlight. First, never oversell your clout. Preserve your role as a team player, instead of acting like the boss’s messenger. Preserve — or reinvigorate — your objectivity. Get over any work crush you have on your boss, and interact with other executives to learn from their insights and savvy. Finally, protect your career options. Research what your next move could be, and find ways to develop relationships with other leaders. It’s always risky to be “too close” to your boss, because the situation can change in an instant. Apply these approaches, and you can successfully survive the mixed blessing of your boss’s extra attention.