Envy is natural. But instead of allowing the emotion to move in a negative direction, use it as motivational fuel. If your coworker gets the promotion you seek, don't throw a pity party.
Consider this a time for self-evaluation and ask yourself: How can I step up my game?
Keep successful colleagues close
Study their work habits, their workplace manner, how they dress and carry themselves and how they interact with their superiors.
Ask them for advice. What works for them may work for you.
Be humble in victory, gracious in defeat
A sore winner is no more appealing than a sore loser.
Be a willing mentor or protege, and always strive to be a congenial colleague.
A workplace riven with egotism, resentments and personality clashes is doomed to underperform.
Help set the tone.
There is no 'green' in team
And there are no "stars" in a losing organisation.
Think of your coworkers as teammates and rally them to be part of a supportive, nurturing environment that creates a roomful of stars.
The workplace that works well together, wins together.
Don't be a toady
Every workplace has its share of people who think the way to the top is by ingratiating oneself to the boss. If you make it on merit, you're likely to attract respect instead of resentment.
Be your best self
Acting on your insecurity and jealousy in the workplace is not a good look. Displays of immaturity are not a ticket to future advancement. Learn to employ a "game face" regardless of any setbacks or inner turmoil. Keep your emotions in check.
Be passion-appropriate
It's okay, even welcome, to be passionate about your work. But displays of ardour unrelated to the job can sink your career, especially if they cross the line into harassment.
Be discreet about office romances.
Managers can help create a positive environment for themselves and their employees by following these practical tips:
Don't succumb to flattery
Sycophancy may be music to your ears, but it creates discordance within the workplace. The worker whose primary skill is currying favour is likely masking deficiencies. To the extent you embrace and promote lackeys, you risk losing the respect of your workforce.
Don't play favourites
You're the boss of everyone, not just a few chosen cronies. Employees notice when you walk by their desk without acknowledging them on your way to chat up their colleagues. They notice even more when those same colleagues leapfrog them on the way to raises or promotions.
The seeds of jealousy are often planted by those at the top. Cultivate an environment of fairness.
Manage competition fairly.
To the greatest extent possible, post every job opportunity and provide a level playing field for your employees to compete. You may have someone in mind for a promotion, but stay open throughout the process—you might find yourself surprised by the outcome.
