When someone else takes credit for your achievements, it's very frustrating. It may be your boss, a colleague or someone you know in your private life. In any case, you will start thinking about how you should deal with the situation. Should you immediately speak up, or rather remain silent? How can you prevent it from happening again? Try the following recommendations from the Harvard Business Review website.
First calm down
Do not act rashly. Making a scene immediately after you discover the problem does not make much sense. You only draw attention to your own emotional imbalance. Wait a day or two, but no more. The longer you fret, the more you are likely to explode when it is time to confront the issue.
Think about the seriousness of the situation
In most cases, the person who takes credit for your success, does not deliberately want to hurt you by promoting him or herself at your expense. Most often, he is unaware and it is an oversight. Like when one team member is talking about himself but he is actually referring to the whole team. Try to write down on paper what you want to say to that person. You may realize that the situation is not so serious.
Do not blame
If you start by blaming the person, you will have to explain why and what the person did. It is therefore better to start by asking a question, ask why. Then the person will have to start explaining. Your goal should not be to point a finger at a culprit, but to explain that you have noticed certain discrepancies.
Search for a solution
When the person recognizes the mistake, try to find a way to correct it together. He could, for example, write a mass email which will highlight your contribution or thank you in front of his superiors. If he does not want to do anything, you can take action yourself. Your actions and behavior should demonstrate your expertise.
Consider a conversation with your boss
If you feel that a colleague systematically takes credit you deserve, talk to your direct supervisor. You should, however, not act as a complainer or whiner. Present it in such a way that you are trying to improve relationships in the team rather than badmouth a colleague.
Prevent further misunderstandings
If you work in a team, set rules on recognizing the achievements and successes of individual members. Then no one will be omitted.
Set an example
Start frequently praising others and you will see they will retaliate. The best way to get recognition is to recognize others.
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