The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
I just sent my boss an email explaining that the time when he usually asks me to work overtime really doesn't fit my schedule well, and listing other times when overtime would fit better into my schedule.
I'm worried that maybe I shouldn't have done that. The company exists to serve our customers, not our employees, and it's sort of impudent to try to dictate to my manager when I do and do not want to work overtime. ...especially since it's a customer-service position, so "when" matters as much as "what gets done".
...but then I wonder if that's one of those inaccurate assumptions of mine Al-Anon has been teaching me to question, and maybe sending the email *was* the right thing to do...
I'm tying my head in knots with this one, I need a reality-check... is it reasonable to tell my employer when I am and am not available for overtime, or would a good employee adjust her personal schedule based on what was needed?
Email is pretty much the only way my boss and I communicate -- he usually works from home to avoid a long commute, so I would be hesitant to impose by asking him to come in for a face-to-face...
I don't think you were being pushy. It doesn't sound like you were making demands. I think if the boss is a reasonable guy, he will consider your request. The worst he can say is no.
I dont think you were push at all. There are some unreasonable people out there in the world. I hope that your boss sees your willingness to stay overtime, however certain days it is not possible.
You are being honest with yourself and your schedule. That is self care. It takes courage to do what you did. I do so hope your boss is level headed, reasonable, and fair minded person.
I just sent my boss an email explaining that the time when he usually asks me to work overtime really doesn't fit my schedule well, and listing other times when overtime would fit better into my schedule.
Hi Atheos
Since your boss works from home and can only communicate by email, then emailing your need is a perfectly acceptable action.
You are correct the business exists to serve the customer and the employees are hired to accommodate this. In order to give the best service to customers, your employer needs to consider the Employee needs in this equation. Explaining your needs in a business like manner is always acceptable. As al anon suggests, take the action let go of the results.
I am sure you processed your decision to do this before you hit the send button. If your manager is making up a schedule and knows when each employee is available it makes his job easier.
Now it is time to be patient and wait his response. Keep an Open Mind and Let Go and let God.
Naw, not pushy. Your time is valuable, and the company does not own you. I think that putting your availability out there shows that you value your time and you are setting a boundary. Good for you! :)