Name changed as could be outing.
I work in a small team, 4 of us including my manager.
Manager and one colleague are close friends outside of work and have been for years, before one of them managed the other.
I feel as though I am being overlooked for some opportunities as my colleague hears about or is told about them first. I often am requested to cover colleague’s workload, to free up my colleague so they can do something positive (like meet with a new client, lead on a new project). I don’t mind but I do feel both are in my remit considering we have the same job description. It is frustrating as some of the things they get to do, I actually feel better qualified for - not being arrogant but my previous working experience before joining the organisation lends itself better to it.
I can’t ask to do it simultaneously, as the rest of the work needs to be covered. It’s a me or them situation but it never seems to fairly alternate and is regularly ‘them’ doing the nicer parts and getting more recognised in the process. Colleague isn’t putting themselves forward, manager is approaching them with it. Quite sure of this.
I’m not sure if it is a bit of favouritism or just my manager naturally assuming colleague is the best person for the job as they are friends and know each other well. I would say I am well liked in the team (along with my third colleague) but because I was last to join - albeit several years ago - I never feel up to date or in the loop.
I don’t want to cause any upset among anyone or seem too self-assured but want to strike the balance between that and developing myself at work.
Has anyone experienced this type of workplace dynamic and how did you navigate it?