My coworker is taking credit for my project and I'm not sure if I should report them.
By @didntaskbut · Work
I led a major project at work that was very successful. Now, my coworker, who had a minor role, is telling everyone they were the lead and I was just their support.
The full story
I've been at my company for about three years and have been working my way up. For the last six months, I was the designated lead on a huge, high-visibility project. It was stressful but it went really well, and our bosses were thrilled with the outcome. My coworker was on the project team, but they were mostly tasked with smaller, administrative things. They did their part, it was fine, but they weren't involved in the core strategy or execution I was responsible for. After the project wrapped, I started hearing whispers. People were congratulating my coworker on 'their' success. I found out they've been telling people they were the project lead and that I was their number two. They are twisting the narrative to make it seem like they were the mastermind and I was just an assistant. They've been vague about it in front of me, but I've had multiple colleagues mention things to me that make it clear what's happening. I have the emails, the project charter, the meeting minutes, all clearly showing my role as the lead. The thing is, this coworker is really well-liked and has been at the company longer than me. If I go to my manager or HR, it's going to look like I'm starting drama or can't handle my own battles. But if I don't, I'm just letting them steal my biggest professional achievement to date, which could impact my next promotion. I feel so betrayed and disrespected. I've worked so hard, and to have someone just take it like this is infuriating. Was I wrong to confront them directly before going to management, a conversation that ended up with them gaslighting me and playing the victim?
How people voted
- On their side — 28% (74 votes)
- Both sides — 40% (106 votes)
- Other side — 33% (87 votes)
Readers are split: “Both sides” leads with 40% — 267 votes and 5 comments so far.
What people are saying
@ugfine — Theft. That's what this is. Your work is your property. Protect it.
@nick — You shouldn't have confronted them directly. Big mistake. It gives them time to build their defense and makes you look emotional. Should have gone straight to management with the documentation.
@gimmieasec — On their side. You have to stand up for yourself. If you let this slide, it will happen again.
@brbthinking — Your coworker is slimy but you're in a tricky political situation. Maybe try to casually assert your leadership in a group setting? Like 'So glad my project was a success, thanks to the team for their support.'
@miarosee — Go to your manager. This isn't 'starting drama,' it's protecting your career. Bring the receipts.
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