This is where it starts, but where does it end? An important consideration to make when one cedes to their employer's demands and commits to spending additional time (on additional tasks) without compensation.
It comes down to the specific employee-employer relationship in these circumstances, for it requires a great deal of trust and common ground. If the worker and the employer already have a strong relationship with good foundations, then there should be no issue with taking on a little more (or less) work — for a certain period. Usually, these things need defining — as all relationships and agreements do — but sometimes, an unspoken agreement of trust can benefit everyone involved. It just depends on the relationship.
In this worker's situation, one might think they should have no issue with spending a little extra time checking their email and responding to updates — until whatever this increased demand that has necessitated the request has resolved itself. The worker notes that they have been working for this boss for “several years” and has only just now made this request “as a favor,” so I can't help but wonder whether or not the employee is just overreacting here. But, again, it depends on the specific interworking of the relationship.
Sure, you should never work for free, and you need to be especially careful that your boundaries aren't eroded when working unpaid hours as a salaried worker — but relationships are borne from give and take. It makes sense to me that this worker should oblige their boss's request for now… but set hard limits on the situation with themselves as to when to readdress the issue.
Keep reading to see the screenshots below. What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.
As always, for more employment content, check out this ridiculous poster that was posted in a break room.
via Stephen Phillips
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