How To Speak Up For Yourself

Overworked? Underpaid? And at risk of burnout? Here’s how to stand up for your rights (without getting fired)

- Mel Evans And Ellie Abraham

Sorry is supposed to be the hardest word (if Elton John is to be believed – and he almost always is). But step inside any workplace and you’ll find it tripping off our tongues in the boardroom, post room, stationery cupboard and kitchenette. So much so that it won’t surprise you to know that women apologise more frequently than men, and are far more likely to keep quiet when something really does need saying*. To ensure that what you think of as basic human decency isn’t mistaken for weakness, try our no-frills guide to not taking any crap at work.

THE SITUATION

You’re the only one staying late

A little overtime is often unavoidable – but if you constantly find yourself working after hours on your own once the rest of the team’s gone home, you need to ask why.

What to do about it

First, look at what you have on and how you manage your time. Are you being productive during the day? Or do you flit between tasks and struggle to focus? Make sure that the reason you’re working late is because your colleagues aren’t doing as much as they should be – then think about what you could hand over and arrange a group meeting. ‘Say something like, “I understand we need to achieve X, but I’m not able to give my best because I’m doing so much. I’d appreciate it if we could share the workload,”’ says business coach Julie Alexander. If your colleagues say they also feel overworked, then ask HR or your line manager if you might be able to expand your team. Build a strong case that includes a breakdown of how much everyone is already doing and highlight the potential consequences of not hiring a new member. Explain how an extra person will boost the whole team’s performance.

THE SITUATION

They’re taking credit for your work