Depending on the work environment within which you work, you must have heard of overtime. Some companies have a lot of work to be done such that their greatest running costs are those from overtime payments. However, some companies manage overtime appropriately while many other companies mismanage overtime. Most employees are unfortunately unaware of the laws that manage overtime and thus they often end up being overworked and less compensated. You would not want to contribute to this statistic so take a look at these important tips anytime you are working overtime in the office:
Track Your Working Hours
By the time you decide to be employed, it is because you want to gain financially from your employment. Perhaps your employment is one of the main sources of income for you. While you strive to guard it, overtime can sound more attractive and pleasant as the more you work, the more you should earn. This is simple logic but it does not always happen that way. It can therefore help if you track the hours you work versus the amount of pay you receive. Keep a record of the number of hours you work normally and the number of times you work overtime too. You must know how much money your employer should pay you for every extra hour you work. If you are not sure your extra working hours are appropriately compensated, check the information at ECLaw.com. From such legal information, understand whether your employer follows the fair compensation policies that govern employment at the particular state and country you work in. Track your compensation to understand whether or not your employer meets the criteria of compensating employees based on fair standards of labor. Such information can also guide you towards filing a compensation case against your employer if he/she does not compensate you fairly.
Consider your Company’s Employee Classification
It is vital that you understand that some companies have some categories of employees being exempted from overtime wages. If your salary allows you to be paid for working overtime, always claim your extra income. However, if your salary does not meet the threshold for which your company pays for overtime, you can always negotiate with your employer. You can accept to work overtime only to the extent that it does not disadvantage you especially if it does not bring you more income. Beware of the rising cases of misclassification too and seek legal reproof in case you are a victim. Some employers take misclassification as a strategy to overwork their employees and avoid compensating them. There are penalties for misclassification that your employer can face including back paying you for the period you were underpaid. This information can help you seek justice when the need arises.
Understand Your Employer’s Expectations
Listen to your employer. Know what your employer wants when he/she asks you to work overtime. Discuss with your employer whether you shall be compensated. If your employer is not willing to pay you for working overtime, seek clarification so that you do not end up blaming one another. You can make local arrangements to work overtime without compensation based on how you will agree. If it’s for benefit sharing, note that down and let your employer know you can hold them accountable. It might help if you enter into an overtime work contract indicating all the compensation benefits you agree on.
Stay True to Yourself
You can request your employer to let you complete other duties at work if your home environment will boost your productivity. If working overtime is not mandatory at your organization, you can request your employer to exempt you. You can also agree with your employer to let your overtime working days be flexible. For instance, if there are days when you must have dinner with your family and your employer requires you to be in the office, let him/her know.
Don’t Overdo It
Overtime work is still working. There is a reason as to why there are set working hours that people should work. Your mind and body need some rest. Do not therefore overwork. Moderate the amount of extra time you work lest you become underproductive for pressuring yourself too much and failing to rest. Remember enough rest contributes to high productivity.
Working overtime is increasingly becoming common. If you are involved in working overtime, ensure you understand the legal framework that regulates the wages per hour policies. You should also understand the type of company you work for and whether it is legally required to compensate you for working overtime. All in all, remember to take care of your body and mind. Communication with your employer can also help you avoid having expectations that cannot be met.
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