nep·o·tism the practice among those with power or influence of favoring relatives or friends, especially by giving them jobs: Unfairly hiring a relative is likely to create a hostile environment. Employees are likely to view the employer in a negative light and will likely decrease employee confidence in managerial authority and power. The manager is less likely to be seen as objective and supportive of long term employees. The workplace morale will be lowered, less productivity more absence.