Nepotism at work is a harmful practice that undermines fairness and meritocracy. Giving favor or preference to family members or friends can create an unfair work environment, leading to resentment and demotivation among other employees.

Unqualified or underqualified individuals may be placed in positions of power, compromising the quality of work and decision-making. Nepotism also stifles innovation and creativity, as diverse perspectives and ideas are not considered.

To combat nepotism, organizations must implement policies and procedures that promote fairness, transparency, and meritocracy. This includes blind hiring practices, standardized evaluation criteria, and independent review panels. A culture of accountability is also crucial, where employees feel empowered to speak out against favoritism and bias.