Perception of favoritism in Brazilian small private colleges

This study aims to analyze the perception of professors about the practices of favoritism in Brazilian small private colleges. For this, qualitative exploratory research was carried out, in which 20 professors were interviewed. For data collection, a semistructured interview script was used and for data analysis, it was carried out through the technique of content analysis. Evidence of cronyism and nepotism were found in hiring processes, in the distribution of hours and disciplines, in the appointment of positions, in dismissal processes, in the distribution of resources, in access to information, and in the protection of some professors who have a closer relationship of friendship with the pedagogical coordinator. On the other hand, professors recognize that greater proximity between professors and managers is associated with a greater commitment to goals, providing evidence of legitimization of the practice of favoritism. This study allowed us to identify some situations in which favoritism occurs even if implicitly within private higher education institutions. The findings help managers to develop tools to increase transparency, equity of processes, and support to achieve organizational goals.