A SUBTLE RED FLAG!

Unfortunately, at some point in your working life, you’ll probably encounter (or perhaps have already encountered) people who treat you poorly simply because of who they believe themselves to be—propped up by their job title, career status or social position.

Far too many expect you to dance to their tune, bend your schedule around theirs, and sacrifice your priorities to accommodate their lifestyle, timeline, or ego. If you don’t? They’ll likely drop you without a second thought—offering hollow promises of “catching up soon,” which, let’s be honest, rarely happen. Even if they do resurface, it often leaves a bitter taste. You can’t shake the sense that their renewed interest has less to do with valuing you and more to do with their pool of options at the time of them reaching out.

I’ve never quite understood those who act as though their time and commitments are sacred while expecting others to be endlessly flexible. For some of us—those not considered “high status” or particularly influential in our field—it’s disheartening to see how easily we’re dismissed, as if our worth only exists when the so-called elites find a use for us.

The real challenge is staying composed, exercising restraint, and keeping your composure. There’s no need for drama—you don’t want to burn a bridge that might still serve a purpose someday, trust me! It’s tempting to give someone like that a verbal dressing down, but the smarter move is to thank them politely for their time and move on. They’ve actually done you a favour by revealing their true colours. Now you hold the power to decide if, or how, you’ll ever engage with them again.

In recent years, we’ve watched countless high-profile figures across industries exposed for their appalling treatment of junior staff, young people, and anyone deemed “beneath” them. Eventually, masks are unveiled and karma is delivered. Always act with good intentions, so you protect your dignity and self-worth in situations where someone may try to manipulate their connection to you for personal gain. Also, remember that you can choose to say "no" and/or walk away from anything or anyone that causes you to feel self-doubt.

Do not be disheartened by those who mistreat you - see the positives and stay on your path.

Written by Charley - @charleyjaiuk, founder of @theindustrytea_

All details and information correct and up to date at the time of publishing.