When you hit a career milestone—whether it’s landing a promotion, winning a major client, or exceeding sales targets—you expect congratulations. But what if colleagues respond with jealousy or resentment instead? Here’s how to approach the awkward situation with grace.

Check your assumptions. Before jumping to conclusions, assess whether their behavior has truly changed. Are they making passive-aggressive comments? Avoiding you? Engaging in one-upmanship? If the pattern is consistent, their resentment is real.

Understand their perspective. If jealousy is at play, direct but thoughtful communication can help. Address the tension by asking open-ended questions. If a recent achievement is the root cause, acknowledge it and offer mentorship or collaboration opportunities.

Assess the power dynamics. Which of you is more senior? If you’re in the power position, you may be able to relax. But if a more powerful colleague is harboring resentment toward you, you may need to proceed more carefully.

Identify your allies. Supportive colleagues amplify your work, celebrate your success, and push you forward. Pay attention to shifts in behavior—have any coworkers suddenly distanced themselves? If someone has started avoiding you on an ongoing basis, it’s likely a sign that you can no longer count on them.

Minimize contact if necessary. If attempts at resolution fail, maintain professionalism but don’t waste energy trying to appease someone who resents your success. Focus on those who support and inspire you.
This tip is adapted from “When Your Colleague Is Jealous of Your Success,” by Dorie Clark and Ruth Gotian.
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