How to handle credit snatching

There are few things that deflate morale more than claiming credit that is due to others. Most people expect to get the credit when they do a good job. So, what can you do if you come up against a credit snatcher?

Understand how you are wired: Some people couldn’t care less if they get credit or not, others need recognition for every little thing they contribute.

If you are the latter, make your team appreciate that getting recognition for what you do is important to you; not so that you can demand it or have an excuse to sulk when you don’t get it but so that colleagues realise what motivates you. Don’t pretend you don’t care about receiving praise if you do; otherwise your resentment will show up soon enough; when you hardly expect it.

Ask if it’s worth fighting for: Sometimes a job well done is its own reward. And you can go overboard with needy validation all the time. Learn to leave some of the credit on the ‘house’. Even occasionally allow others to take it and don’t go saying ‘I did it but decided to let so and so get the credit’. For your own peace of mind, know what your contribution was but don’t insist on being singled out especially, if it was a team activity.

What is yours, is yours: There are times when the credit is squarely yours. If you don’t get it, self promote if you must but don’t be vociferous or obnoxious about it. A better way would actually be to have the ‘credit’ put on your performance record rather then publicly acknowledged. Better still, keep your own achievement file so that you can encourage and cheer yourself up regularly. You can also draw examples from that file for example, during job interviews. 

Live to fight another day: Yes, bosses can take the credit if they choose to, knowing full well they risk ending up with a disgruntled team member.  If you honestly feel the boss has stolen your spotlight, best to let it go. Note your contributions through and during performance reviews. In the confines of your meeting, he or she is unlikely to dispute that as long as you state these clearly and do not make any veiled reference to your view that he or she stole your thunder.

Put the horse before the cart: If recognition is your vital motivator, have a plan that will ensure regular supply.  Volunteer for high profile activities, work on the pet projects of your superiors, use a skill that is highly valued in your organisation, find the solution for a critical problem, acknowledge your boss for the praise he or she cares to give you.  You could say something like ‘Thanks for letting me lead on that piece of work. I did my best and appreciated the credit you gave me’ for it.

Now take action: Give some long overdue praise to 3 people this week.