When The Millionaire at Work Tells You to Work For Free

Yes, it happens.  Unfortunately, it is happening more as companies are taking advantage of employees who fear they will lose their jobs if they don't comply.

I typically don't write about workplace issues on my blog. However, in the past couple of years, younger engineers have asked me to be mentors for them.  I would be an awful mentor, if I didn't warn of this ridiculous practice that some employers utilize.

If you are asked to work for free, you should immediately do the following:

1. Say no. If you are not comfortable saying no, it's time to start working on a walk-out plan.

2. Update your resume. Whether you say no or not, your company is on a downward spiral of abusing and disrespecting you and you need to be ready to move.

3. Update (or create) your LInkedIn profile. The job I have now is the result of a recruiter finding me on LinkedIn. I make a habit of keeping my profile up to date and engaging with recruiters on a regular basis, even if I'm not actively job searching at the moment.  They always appreciate honest feedback when a posting does not work for me and they always keep me in mind when they are looking to fill other positions.

4. Start keeping records. Chances are there are other actions happening that you may not agree with or that make you feel disenfranchised. I hope you will be comfortable contacting your HR department for help. If not, this information will come in handy when completing your exit interview with the company. If you leave, let them know why―honestly and respectfully.

Are there times when your employer is justified in asking you to work for free? Perhaps. If you were properly trained and made mistakes that lead to re-working and impacted schedule and budget, you should be a professional and do what you can to fix the situation. Make your work product the best possible. But notice I said, "if you were properly trained". This includes having appropriate oversight for the task you are performing.

If in doubt, talk to HR. Don't let millionaires force you to sacrifice so they can have a higher profit.

#31DayBlogChallenge day #4 is done!

Putting Into Practice

Since I am challenging myself to write every day, I figured I may as well challenge myself to finish some Works In Progress.  I have been lucky enough to have some unfinished projects from other crafters to pull from as I create new projects. 

These two eight point stars are perfect for trying out the skills I learned from the Fluff and Stuff class.

I took them apart, then pressed and backed with some left over linen fabric from my stash.

After sandwiching and basting, I followed the instructions from the class. Very slowly and carefully.

I had thoughts of grandeur in my head until I really started thinking about it and realized exactly how much thought quilting takes in the beginning. After rejecting some fancy stenciling, I decided to stick with some basic straight mimic lines. The true quilters make this look so easy.  I assure you, it is not! 

I am thrilled with the results. They look and feel quite fancy! But they are still unfinished. The last step is to add binding.

#31DayBlogChallenge day #3 is done!

Fluff and Stuff

Below are just a few pictures from the Fluff and Stuff class that was sponsored by the fantastic crew at Spool. The class was taught by the equally fantastic Paula Reid.  This was my first quilting class and I am excited to start making and sharing based on what I learned.  If this opportunity ever comes your way, do not pass it up.  What I loved about Paula is that she constantly gave tips for turning your quilting into a business or preparing your quilts for show submissions. 

For now, visit both Spool and Paula and tell them how great they are.

#31DayBlogChallenge day #2 is done!