Overtime

Speedy2009

I'm just wondering how other people feel about doing overtime
We all do it at some point or another, some for cash, some for time off, some for free...

I've started a new job recently and I knew there would be overtime involved (for no return) but there has been more than expected

so just wondering what do people think - when does overtime become too much?
does it take over your life, should we say 'no' and leave or is it just part of our jobs?

(Please no responses 'your lucky to have a job' - that's not the point here)

deelite

Speedy2009 wrote: »

I'm just wondering how other people feel about doing overtime
We all do it at some point or another, some for cash, some for time off, some for free...

I've started a new job recently and I knew there would be overtime involved (for no return) but there has been more than expected

so just wondering what do people think - when does overtime become too much?
does it take over your life, should we say 'no' and leave or is it just part of our jobs?

(Please no responses 'your lucky to have a job' - that's not the point here)

I don't understand why you would consider doing overtime for free. You'll always have a job if you're willing to work for free

Mrs OBumble

Employers will always push to find how how much they can get you to do: it's up to you to find your balance of when to say no. I'm not suggesting "no, I quit", just "no, that's not reasonable, I'm not available".

To the 2nd poster: in salaried positions, some hours in excess of the contracted amount is pretty normal. As you get good at your job, you learn how to make things work for you in return.

AnnyHallsal

My OH's hours are officially 9-5. He rarely leaves the office before 7 and can be there til 8 or 9 quite regularly. He doesn't get paid overtime but he has gotten a substantial raise and huge bonus for the past three years. For him, being so dedicated is worth it. It's recognised by his employers and is paying off financially, albeit indirectly. If he'd complained he'd still be on his starter salary or have been let go after the probation period. No-one else in the company has gotten a raise or anywhere near so big a bonus. That said, he doesn't put in the hours out of fear, more out of ambition.