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Recognition Parties Feedback

Our manager gave an impromptu speech at our holiday party, and he mentioned all of my peers by name, but left me out. I am hurt and embarrassed, and I certainly thought that I performed as well as the others. Should I say anything to him or just forget about it?



What probably happened here is that your manager was unexpectedly thrown under the spotlight, and he did his best without a script. However, because this was an unanticipated appearance, a few lines and names that he would have liked to mention slipped between the cracks.

Since your performance is on par with that of your associates, there is no reason to think that he left you out intentionally. In fact, your manager would probably be somewhat upset with himself if he knew of the omission. After all, if he wanted to send a negative message to you, there are many better ways to make sure that you get it.

If you can live with this, then let it go. At the same time, if you find that the incident is gnawing away at you or even keeping you up at night, then you should mention it to him. The approach that you take will obviously depend in part on his personality and your working relationship with him, but either way, you should not use a negative or evaluative tone.

For example, you could tell him that you enjoyed his speech except you were puzzled by one small point. Briefly tell him what happened and then listen. If he's a good manager and you're a good employee, this should resolve the matter for good.



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