5 signs you are being taken advantage of at work

Everyone wants job satisfaction, and large part of that feeling is being recognised for the work you do and the goals you achieve. If you find yourself in a situation where you’re not receiving any recognition, are constantly asked by colleagues to take on extra work, or feel as if you’re in a “thankless” role, the reality might be that you’re being taken advantage of by your coworkers and managers. You need to choose to be in an environment where you can thrive, and if, that isn’t true for your current workplace, then you need to consider if it may be time to move on. Unsure? Here are 5 signs if you are being taken advantage of at work:

1. Frequently doing work that is out of your job scope
   
   If you find yourself spending too much time working on things out of your job scope or responsibility and are in turn missing to complete your own projects, then it’s definitely a problem. This can cause a dent in your reputation with your manager or result in working overtime. It’s fine to take on extra responsibilities when you’re able, but if it’s causing you to miss your priority work deadlines, you may need to take a firm stance to cut down on how much extra assistance you provide.
   
   
2. You are juggling the work of two or more
   
   This situation happens when a colleague leaves and you’re expected to take over the person’s role temporarily whilst still continuing to do your job. But if it this temporary situation becomes permanent, you’ll need to speak up. If you don’t mind taking on the extra workload, set up a time with your supervisor to discuss  your new job scope and if a title promotion or pay rise is necessary.
   
   
3. You have not been compensated for your efforts
   
   If you have repeatedly been promised a salary increase or a promotion, but it never happens, it’s a sign that you are being taken advantage of. But before bringing it up to your manager and setting clear expectations about the issue, Though it’s important to keep your company’s financial health in mind –  if there is a company-wide freeze on raises, for example – you still should have a chat with your manager about the issue and your expectations on resolving it. If you’re willing to consider non-financial compensation such as more holiday or the flexibility to work remotely, let your boss know that – but only if you mean it.
   
   
4. You are hardly allowed to take time off
   
   When you are performing and delivering all your work, you are most certainly entitled to taking personal time off to recharge. But if your boss is giving you a hard time about or not approving your leave requests, that’s a major red flag.
   
   
5. You are being excluded from opportunities
   
   If your boss or team are not recognising you for extra efforts, involving you in larger project opportunities or meetings you feel you should be part of for your type of role or skills, that's something that might need to be addressed. Start with an honest conversation with your manager and be prepared to demonstrate how you’re being excluded or unrecognised. If that doesn’t work, you may need to have a good hard think about your workplace and whether it's the right place for you.