seniority

Definition

A system where tenure and time-served trump talent and performance when determining privileges, promotions, or layoff protection. It's the organizational equivalent of "I was here first, so I get the good parking spot," which works great until you realize the person with seniority peaked in 1987. The union's best friend and the merit-based manager's worst nightmare.

Example Usage

Due to seniority rules, the newest hire would be the first to go if the company needed to downsize, regardless of performance.

Source: Common HR and labor relations terminology

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