askST Jobs: My boss takes credit for my ideas and achievements. What can I do?

Navigating workplace frustrations can be challenging, particularly when one's efforts go unnoticed while someone else receives recognition. In a recent article, Melinda Ng, founder of career consultancy Wake Up Now with Melinda, offers guidance on how to address this issue.

Before reacting emotionally, employees should assess whether the lack of acknowledgment is a one-time occurrence or a pattern, as managers might occasionally overlook individual contributions in favour of team achievements, according to Ng.

To ensure fair recognition, Ng advises documenting work through emails, project updates, and meeting summaries. Actively seeking opportunities to present one's work is also crucial.

In a private conversation with the manager, employees can express their desire for a more balanced approach by saying, “I’m glad the project was well received. I’d appreciate opportunities to present my contributions directly and gain greater visibility.”

If the issue persists despite addressing it with the manager, Ng suggests consulting the human resources department or the manager's superior, providing factual evidence to support the claims. However, it's essential to remember that while good work is important, effectively communicating its value is equally critical for career growth.

David Leong, managing director of PeopleWorldwide Consulting, emphasizes that a good boss takes responsibility for mistakes and shares credit for successes, while a poor boss does the opposite. Repeated instances of a boss taking credit for their employees' work raise concerns about leadership integrity, organizational trust, and fairness in performance evaluations.

Leong also highlights the long-term implications of working under such a manager, as it may hinder career progression and professional development. Ultimately, he advises employees to carefully consider leaving the situation, rather than reacting impulsively, as transitioning to a new job can be challenging.