Are You Being Taken Advantage Of At Work?

Two years ago, I was hired to be a content writer for a small agency. The company has grown tremendously since then. But, the only people executing the contracts are myself and a couple college interns. We've reached the point where there are more billable hours than hours available to execute. When that happens, it falls to me to sacrifice nights and weekends to get the job done. I've repeatedly asked for a full-time writer with more experience, but keep getting told it isn't in the budget.



Although my job duties have changed considerably, I haven't received any change in compensation, not even a cost-of-living increase. I've felt an obligation to see this through because I built it, and the company would have a difficult time fulfilling contracts without me. But, between the never-ending workload and no raise in sight, I'm getting fed up.



Are my frustrations just the price of moving up in the world of business? Or is it time to move on to a company that will appreciate me for the skills I bring to the table, and give me the resources I need to execute my job? — Stephanie



Interestingly, you’re behaving like a partner in this business. You’re sacrificing evenings and weekends, feeling an obligation to finish what you’ve built, sacrificing short-term compensation and creating long-term value — except you’re not a partner, and they’re taking complete advantage of you — and you’re letting them.



There could be many reasons for this:



You enjoy the power that comes with knowing so much of the workflow rests with you. Somewhere deep down, you don’t feel worthy of a bigger title or higher compensation. You’re afraid of the potential confrontation that might result from asking for what you need or deserve. You’re waiting for your bosses' approval — hoping they’ll recognize and reward your contribution without your having to ask for it. Or, you have a genuine problem saying “no.”



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