A recent survey conducted by Resume Now and reported by CPA Practice Advisor reveals a significant disconnect between the values companies claim to uphold and what employees actually experience at work.

The Values Gap Report, based on responses from 1,000 U.S. workers in May 2025, found that while 86 percent of employees say their company communicates its values clearly, only 44 percent believe those values are consistently demonstrated in daily operations.

Notably, 70 percent of respondents have witnessed workplace leaders bending rules or playing favorites, highlighting a widespread perception of inconsistency and unfairness in leadership behavior.

The survey also uncovered that just 47 percent of employees feel their leaders frequently model the company's stated values, and 43 percent have observed favoritism in promotions, raises, or recognition. Furthermore, 24 percent report that toxic top performers are protected by leadership, suggesting that high achievers are often given leeway despite negative behaviors. This pattern of selective rule enforcement and favoritism appears to undermine trust and engagement among the broader work force.

Source: https://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2025/07/02/70-of-employees-say-workplace-leaders-bend-rules-for-favorites/164174/

So, the question for our readers is: Does Favoritism Exist In The Workplace? 

Here is the opinion of one of the McCalmon editorial staff:

Jack McCalmon, Esq.

We know that favoritism exists in pre-school, so it makes sense that it exists in the workplace. Of course, leaders playing favorites creates a lot of problems, including disengagement. The biggest problem is when favoritism replaces merit and fairness. That can lead to turnover and even litigation.

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