Company casually announced they’ll be committing wage theft as a general policy

I work in healthcare at a small private practice clinic as a paraprofessional, and sometimes I’m amazed at the awful policies of my company.

Even though we work one on one with kids who are sometimes sick, and the company won’t send them home unless they vomit not once, but TWICE, if we call out sick for a single day we will be written up. How they expect us to not get sick when we are literally being vomited on is beyond me.

Well, this week, I received a company wide email stating that if certain daily paperwork is not completed by the end of our working day, we will not be being paid for our shift that day. It came along with a hostile lecture about how important this paperwork is and how now if we don’t do it, we will directly affected.

My jaw dropped. Are they really so incompetent that they don’t realize this is illegal? Did they just hope nobody would be aware of the law?

I sent an email to HR immediately raising my concerns. FTR, I have never once failed to tuen in my paperwork. It is important as without the paperwork insurance cannot be billed. However, it is also electronic and the website/system is not perfect, and there are times when technical difficulties make it impossible to submit it the same day.

Still waiting to hear back from the company, though HR did send me a generic email saying they will respond to my concerns eventually.

Jobadvisor:

I am so sorry to hear about your situation. It is completely unacceptable for your employer to threaten wage theft, especially in the healthcare field where you are directly exposed to illness.

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all instances of wage theft, including emails, memos, and any other relevant documentation.
2. Consult with a Labor Lawyer: A labor lawyer can advise you on your legal rights and options. They can help you understand the specific labor laws that apply to your situation and can represent you in any legal proceedings.
3. File a Complaint with the Department of Labor: If your employer continues to engage in wage theft, you can file a complaint with the Department of Labor. The Department of Labor can investigate your complaint and take action against your employer.
4. Contact Your State's Attorney General's Office: Many states have consumer protection laws that prohibit wage theft. You can contact your state's Attorney General's office to file a complaint.
5. Consider Joining a Union: If your workplace is not unionized, consider joining a union. Unions can help protect workers' rights and can negotiate for better working conditions and pay.

Remember, you have rights as a worker. Don't be afraid to stand up for yourself and fight for what is fair.

What is the most meaningful job you’ve ever had?

Advice

28 (F), currently experiencing a lull in my career as I’m moving to an isolated town in the North and have limited job prospects.

I’m grateful that my husband can support us during this time while I find a new home for my career, but I’m feeling like I want something more rewarding. I come from an e-commerce & marketing background and am exhausted fighting the uphill battle of fast fashion, consumerism, and an algorithm that decides whether or not the content is good enough for the masses.

I am curious to what other careers people have explored that felt rewarding to them? I want to find the right job, even if that has to be remote from where I am. Would love to hear any recommendations for things that made you want to get out of bed in the morning.

Jobadvisor:

Some people find meaning in careers that directly help others, such as healthcare, education, or social work. Others find it in creative fields like art, music, or writing. Some people find meaning in business or entrepreneurship, using their skills to create something valuable and make a positive impact on the world. Ultimately, the most meaningful job for you will be the one that aligns with your values and makes you feel fulfilled.

Here are some suggestions for finding a more meaningful career:

1. Reflect on your values and passions: What are the things that are most important to you in life? What are you naturally good at? What kind of work would make you feel fulfilled?
2. Explore different career options: There are many different careers out there that you may not have considered. Talk to people in different fields, research different job options online, or take a career assessment test.
3. Volunteer your time: Volunteering is a great way to gain experience in a new field and discover your passions.  
4. Network with people in your desired field: Networking can help you learn about different job opportunities and get your foot in the door.  
5. Don't be afraid to take risks: Sometimes the most rewarding careers require taking a leap of faith.

Here are some specific career ideas that might be a good fit for you, based on your background in e-commerce and marketing:

• Digital marketing for a non-profit organization: Use your skills to promote a cause you care about.  
• Social media manager for a sustainable brand: Help promote brands that are making a positive impact on the environment.
• Content creator for a wellness company: Create content that inspires people to live healthier lives.
• Freelance writer or copywriter: Write about topics that you're passionate about.  
• Start your own business: Use your skills and knowledge to create your own business that aligns with your values.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The most important thing is to find a career that makes you happy and fulfilled.

My supervisor denied my PTO request in December after I made the request 6 months in advance

I submitted the request for a few weeks of PTO in December and January. We're going out of the country. I submitted this request in May, thinking it would give them plenty of time to figure things out.

They just denied the request. In November. Said it was because of coverage issues and that, "If we approve your time-off, no one else can take time off during those days".

Not my problem nor my responsibility, especially when you had six months to figure it out.

So I put my two weeks in. Happy holidays.

Jobadvisor:

Your supervisor's decision to deny your PTO request after six months is frustrating and unprofessional. It's understandable why you're upset and considering leaving the company.

Here are some things to consider before making a final decision:

1. Consider your options:

• Discuss with your supervisor: If you haven't already, have a calm and professional conversation with your supervisor to understand their reasoning for denying your request. Perhaps there are unforeseen circumstances that you're unaware of.
• Appeal the decision: If your company has a formal process for appealing PTO denials, explore this option.
• Resign: If you're certain that you want to leave, submitting your two weeks' notice is a reasonable course of action.

2. Reflect on your decision:

• Weigh the pros and cons: Consider the potential consequences of resigning, such as losing your current income and benefits.
• Explore other options: If you're not ready to resign, consider alternative solutions, such as requesting a different time off period or working remotely during your vacation.

3. Document the situation:

• Keep records: Document all relevant communications with your supervisor, including emails and meeting notes.
• Seek legal advice: If you believe your supervisor's decision was discriminatory or violated company policy, consider consulting with an employment lawyer.

4. Take care of yourself:

• Prioritize your well-being: Remember that your mental and emotional health are important. Take time to relax and de-stress.
• Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your situation.

5. Plan for the future:

• Start your job search: If you decide to resign, start looking for a new job that values its employees and offers a healthy work-life balance.
• Update your resume: Make sure your resume is up-to-date and highlights your skills and experience.

Remember, you have the right to prioritize your personal life and take time off for vacation. If your current employer isn't willing to accommodate your needs, it may be time to find a new one.