Feeling Undervalued at Work: How to Deal with a Biased Boss and Unfair Treatment?

In my office, I consistently complete my tasks without leaving anything pending. However, my General Manager (GM) always seems to find faults in my work. Meanwhile, another colleague, who is not fulfilling his responsibilities on time, seems to be treated more leniently by the GM.

I suspect that this might be because I am the Accounts Manager, while he is the Operations Manager, which might lead the GM to prioritize his role over mine. Additionally, the Operations Manager does not listen to or respect anyone in the office, and he often ignores emails. Despite these issues, he remains successful.

Please provide some clarity on how to handle this situation!

You need to show more maturity in your workplace and view things from a proper perspective.

Things will change. If you still feel that what you are saying is a reality, then please approach your GM after your working hours and discuss the matter sincerely. Do not become aggressive in the discussion but be assertive.

Understanding Perception and Self-Assessment

Perception differs! How you assess your own work may not be the same when assessed by your superior or HOD. It's human psychology that we always think highly of ourselves and may not admit where we lack or need improvement. Please develop a positive attitude towards your GM and colleagues. Discuss with your GM when he is free about his expectations of your performance. Please do a SWOT analysis of yourself (https://creately.com/blog/diagrams/p...swot-analysis/).

Evaluating the GM's Perspective

In what way is your GM going to benefit by treating two managers differently? Do you have an answer to this question?

Beyond Work Performance

At times, apart from work performance, other traits will also be given more weightage, such as attitude, interpersonal skills, troubleshooting on the work front without escalating every trivial matter to the next level, being proactive on the work front, etc.

Mostly, rather than hard work, smart work is appreciated by superiors. Before I conclude, always remember, "comparisons never end - you can never be satisfied if you start comparing yourself to someone else."

Be positive! Wish you good luck!

Comparison and Self-Reflection

It seems that you are comparing yourself with that "other" manager whom you think is being favored. My guess is that you both have different types of assignments.

Understanding the GM's Role

The GM is responsible for overall performance and accountability. He can only favor someone at his own peril. In any case, the judgment and treatment of other employees are not your responsibility. So stop punishing yourself by this comparison of treatment. Just be concerned with your work and take pride in your work quality so that no one can find faults with your work.

The Advantage of Being in Accounts

You are lucky to be in accounts where work and performance are measurable and not subject to personal biases. My experience is that good accountants are much in demand and enjoy a privileged position when they do good analysis and checks to prevent cash leakage.

Focus on Your Own Performance

To begin with, be clear that that person's performance is not your responsibility. Do quality work, and you will be rewarded.

Focus on Your Own Work

It's all about your thinking. You are comparing yourself with others. Whenever you start comparing yourself with others, you will never focus on your own work. This lack of focus can lead to more mistakes and cause a loss of self-confidence. Therefore, you need to ignore these comparisons and concentrate on your own work with quality.

Once you become skilled at producing quality work and bring uniqueness to your tasks, your boss will begin to appreciate your efforts. Eventually, you will realize that your boss is favoring you in various tasks. Ignore the negativity and try to see the positive aspects in every moment.

The Impact of Cultural Bias in the Workplace

Do not measure your progress using someone else's ruler. Why do you evaluate or judge colleagues? Comparing yourself with others is not beneficial. Business is formed by many minds and many hands. If you are not fit for their culture, you can move because you are not a tree.

Bias and Unprofessional Practices in Indian Workplaces

Biased culture is used as a strategy in Indian workplaces, and it is an unprofessional practice. Many organizations, especially big ones, practice culture-based hiring as well. They may slightly overlook quality, talent, efficiency, and effectiveness. Culture can perpetuate bias and unprofessionalism in the workplace. If you respect your culture and also respect others, then culture will not be a deciding factor in hiring, coordinating, and managing people.

Regards, Mohan Nair.