Work in the company that you deserve (and that deserves you)
We often feel very disappointed when we work hard and tirelessly, only to obtain very little recognition and gratitude in the end. It’s all the more frustrating when you see, not without a certain resentment, that some others – clearly less diligent and hard-working – reap the glory and the benefits that go with it. We may even sometimes give our 200% to our job. It’s never enough. At best, we catch a forced smile from colleagues and a tap on the back from the hierarchy. The first time, it is okay. The second time, it sounds like abuse or oriented favoritism. The third time, you have to take stock. The conclusion is clear: either you are clearly being the mickey, or you are as see-through as a freshwater jellyfish. In both cases, a frank and constructive discussion is essential with the parties concerned. By putting on the table – with supporting evidence – the elements that are clearly in your favor, the balance should logically weigh on your side, provided that bad faith is not part of it. This is the time to demand (affordable) guarantees and the cred you deserve! Well. Efforts are not just on one side. We quickly forgot that supply and demand work both ways. A priori, your employer needs you as much as you need him (or her). If after a certain period of time you regret that your words have not been taken into account, it is time to head for greener pastures. That’s enough!
Either way, I strongly recommend that you read the terms and conditions of your contract, provided that there is one. I know what you may be saying to yourself, “my contract is a ten-page long document, it is all administrative spiel, it is always the same thing.” Certainly is. Nothing really new under the sun. However, there may be a mention between two pompous paragraphs of a special condition which could be costly for you. Or better yet, which could be costly for your employer, in the event of a dispute or non-compliance with certain rules. This contract has essential legal value and can prove to be extremely valuable when trouble begins. Which I do not wish anyone, of course. This is why I encourage everyone to take fifteen minutes to read their contract carefully and focus on the crucial points. In the absence of a contract or agreement worthy of the name (which is a shame), any verifiable written indication will be an irrefutable asset in your quest for justice. In some cases, the oral statements may have legal value. Better be sure of yourself ...
In any case, it is of course desirable not to come to such an extreme. Communication is the centerpiece of any exemplary collaboration. We will favor amicable resolution as much as possible to prevent the situation from worsening. The consequences of an ugly workplace agreement can spill over into private life and even affect your future jobs – some recruiters will find out about you from your former employers. Needless to say, if you have bad press, recruiters will be relatively cautious or even reluctant to hire you.
But let's get back to the topic in hand. You don’t want to leave your current company to take refuge in another company which will just as well be able to squeeze you dry. On the pretext of a new start, we would naturally tend to start to move forward promptly and throw ourselves body and soul into our work. Obviously, the goal behind all this is to satisfy and to pull the wool over your employer’s eyes. Clearly, to make a good impression. It is legitimate. But don't we say "once bitten, twice shy?" It seems to me that we do! Getting involved in your work is perfectly normal. It’s, as you would say, the least you can do; everyone gets satisfied. But starting to devote yourself to 200% – or even more, to compensate for the mishap of your previous job – is a poor performance to avoid at all costs. In addition, some vicious superiors will quickly notice your exploits and make use of them without moderation. My advice, don't become an easy target for them. With a little discernment, you quickly know who you are dealing with and, therefore, take precautions not to end up on the frontline.
Indeed, for many people, a fairly common flaw – and one that could look like a quality – is being "too kind," or to some extent, not being able to say no. The two notions come together somehow. You surely have an exacerbated inclination to do well, and it is all to your credit. But it’s certainly not the case for everyone. Your inclination to not say “no” is quickly noticed and appreciated. Very appreciated. And when the others feel like you could say "no," they would know how to make you feel a little guilty, wouldn’t they? The end justifies the means. And we surely know this end. In order not to disappoint and continue to be in the good books of your hierarchy, you will give in. Again. "Would you do that favor for me?" In this case, the slightest excuse, even proven, can be taken for an affront, an example of cowardice, a demonstration of weakness. And yes, you are no longer essential. You are no longer the toy of His Majesty. Either, they will leave you alone. Either, your hierarchy will have it in for you. Hang on. In any case, whatever the cost, you can always say "no." A negative answer does not mean the end of everything. It is not an end in itself. You admit your limits. But your skills are exercised in many other areas. And you may be led, at a later time, to agree to do this “favor,” when the conditions are more favorable to you. If you do not want to clearly say "no," there is nothing to prevent you from proposing an alternative solution, when it is possible. An unexpected suggestion can possibly forestall a complex situation and add credit to your person. But in any case, let it be said, saying "no" from time to time will never kill anyone. Theoretically.
No matter how experienced, the person who gives you orders and directs you remains a human being, just like you. A human being is, until proven otherwise, fallible. Who has never made a mistake? Who has never started at any time? Who has never been in your place? Everything is relative, of course; there may be different circumstances depending on the people in question. However, these circumstances and the status of the person supervising you are not a valid reason to push for exaggeration and abuse in one way or another.
The same is true when working for or with a friend. You first need to know how to take a step back and be able to dissociate friendship from professional activity. Mixing the two is definitely the shortest choice for achieving dismal failure unless you are able to take everything into consideration and anticipate all the time. If a friendship is real, sincere and long-standing, anticipation should be a breeze. But watch out for compromises. Being friends at work does not imply increased permissiveness or departing from the most basic rules of professionalism and integrity. "After all I have done for you, can you do that for me?" The heartstrings can be a cruel weapon. "I thought we were friends." Coup de grace. Being friends does not necessarily entitle anyone to abusive behavior. Taking advantage of a relationship or a status is nothing more or less than barely disguised perversion. This type of behavior has no place either in a friendship or in the professional context. Stop the blackmail! Let's not even talk about romantic relationships at work or dating a colleague ...
You are competent, experienced, motivated, enthusiastic. Like everyone, you have your flaws; you are not faultless. Nevertheless, you deserve to be treated as a dedicated and respected employee. You have a right to your share in the success of a business. A fair share. Depending on your merit, your work. Not according to your pretty face, your sympathy, your pompous title, your relationships. This vision may seem a bit archaic. And yet, equity is the very basis of esteem between individuals. Provided that equity is exercised rightfully.
"Yes, but I take all the risks; it’s then normal that I am the one who earns the most. ” Except for traders, punters and shareholders, such a declaration must obviously be put into perspective. What are the risks? Are you affected by these risks? What is your personal implication, your responsibility in taking this risk? Do you agree with this risk taking? Is the risk worth it? Is it really a risk? Even if the risk is there, is it the risk itself that guarantees the remuneration? Anyway, there is no risk taking – especially if it is important – without thinking beforehand. If the risk is taken, it is that there is, theoretically, more chances of achieving a success than ending up to a failure. Otherwise, it's just pure madness. If the risk corresponds to a task or an activity that has been done, the compensation must be calculated according to what was done and not according to the gravity of the risk. And in no case should the consequences of this risk have an impact on those who have not "taken part" in this risk. In other words, if you want to jump into this hole, it’s your own choice, but don’t drag me down with you. The risk taker only takes the entire responsibility. The others should not be affected. No one should ask others to take risks, all the more if these risks are reckless.
Be smart. Assess your job. Work in an environment you deserve.