Title: Am I really that bad?
Content:
Context: My college requires me to have a co-op in order to graduate. They also have a rule where I must accept the first offer I receive. To make a long story short, I accepted an offer only to find out it’s unpaid after receiving a letter of employment from an Accounting firm. I will be working 8 hours a day, Monday to Friday, from January to the end of April 2024.
With tax season here, my boss has been asking me to work overtime every day this week, which I have refused. I cannot bring myself to work unpaid overtime in an unpaid co-op.
Today, my boss snapped and called me unprofessional. He stated that every accountant should be willing to work overtime during tax season. Am I the problem here? I believe I am, but how do I change my thinking of “if I’m not getting paid, why should I work overtime?”
Please be honest, even if it’s harsh. Tell me how my mindset is flawed so I can reflect on it.
One response
First of all, it’s important to acknowledge that your feelings are valid and it is completely understandable to not want to work overtime for an unpaid co-op position. Your time and effort are valuable, and you deserve to be compensated for the work you do.
That being said, it’s also essential to recognize that the professional world can be demanding, especially in industries like Accounting during tax season. While your boss may have reacted inappropriately by calling you unprofessional, there is a certain level of expectation in the workplace when it comes to putting in extra hours during busy periods.
To address the issue of feeling unmotivated to work overtime for an unpaid position, it might be helpful to reframe your mindset. Instead of focusing on the lack of compensation, try to think about the experience and skills you can gain from putting in extra effort. This could potentially lead to a good reference for future opportunities and help you stand out as a dedicated and hardworking individual.
Additionally, it might be worth having a conversation with your boss to clarify your responsibilities and express your concerns about working unpaid overtime. It’s important to communicate openly and assertively about your boundaries and limitations. Maybe there is room for negotiation or a compromise that can benefit both parties.
In the end, it’s essential to prioritize your well-being and not compromise your own values for the sake of a job. If you continue to feel undervalued or taken advantage of, it may be worth considering if this co-op position is the right fit for you. Remember, it’s okay to advocate for yourself and seek out opportunities that align with your goals and principles.