Remote work is the new normal as companies transition to the new normal. But amidst this, a lot of unscrupulous individuals take advantage of remote working talents. You can prevent this. But some don’t show these red flags from the start.
How will you know that you’re exploited in your remote work then? Here are 7 signs.
Low Salaries, Even After Asking for a Raise
At the start of your remote working career, you might scrape up for all the offers available. After all, you just want to get by. But as you grow your practice, you suddenly see your worth.
Compared to other offers, is that the same as what you’re getting? And after asking for a raise because of the value you offer, did your boss give you one?
It’s not a 100% sign. But it’s one of the signs you should watch out for. If you’re not properly compensated for the value you give, you might be exploited in your online work.
Delayed Pay
A low salary is one thing. But what if your salary is always delayed? And I’m not talking about a few days. It might be weeks or even months.
For doing all the hard work, you deserve to be paid on time. And if you’re boss doesn’t respect that even with all the deadlines he imposes, better think twice.
Your Opinion Doesn’t Matter
Sometimes, we poured our heart and soul into projects. And as a proactive individual, you want to improve your craft. So you communicated your suggestions, only to be brushed off as nonsense.
It’s different when a manager or boss constructively hears and considers. After all, not all suggestions should be accepted.
But it’s different if they blatantly make you feel that your opinion doesn’t matter. And I assure you, you will see the difference. So check if they value your opinion. If not, there might be something wrong with the dynamic.
Your Boss or Colleagues Steal Recognition and Blames You For the Mistakes
Everyone wants to feel appreciated. And as a remote worker, that simple “good job” or “you did well” can mean so much. But what if you don’t get any recognition? Or worse, your boss or colleagues credit themselves for all your hard work.
To make matters even worse, they only call you out when something is wrong.
They blame you for all the failures, and they reap all the recognition if something good happens. No one deserves this treatment. Better weigh your options.
You Permanently Took Another Person’s Job
It’s inevitable for companies to lose some talents. It might be them looking for greener pastures, or they have a change in life goals. And during this transition, you might take on some work for some time.
But what if that work became a norm on top of your tasks? Companies should provide sufficient human resources for the tasks needed. If you just absorbed all the work without even a slight pay raise, chances are, your boss is exploiting you.
Consistent Overtime
How are your working hours? Are you always on overtime? Although, there are two sides to the coin. It’s either you don’t use your time well that’s why you need extra hours. Or you just have so much on your plate.
If it’s the latter and overtime is seen as a norm, it’s a telltale sign.
No Work-life Boundaries
We all have lives outside work. We have families, hobbies, and passions that we want to cultivate. But how can you do that when there’s no boundary between work and your life?
Are you getting constant calls outside of work hours? Are you expected to be on call just because you are at home? If there’s no respect for your personal time, you might have an exploitative boss. Set your boundaries.
Conclusion
So now, what to do when you are experiencing these signs? It’s best to talk to your boss about it or someone higher up. But make sure you proceed with caution because if you truly have a toxic workplace, you’re running the risk of getting fired.
If possible make financial preparations first, and then when push comes to shove, you have the option to turn back and find better opportunities elsewhere.
