Ask ReproJobs: What should I do when I'm repeatedly asked to work more (unpaid) hours?

Dear ReproJobs, 

I am working part-time for an organization while I finish my masters (which I'm enrolled in full-time). The other week, I worked a few extra hours beyond what I am contracted for (per request of my boss to complete things after I hit my hours), and asked my boss if I should work less the following week to even it out or include the extra time in my time sheet. I expected them to choose the former option, since this position is only part-time due to budget restraints. Instead, they gave me a spiel that was essentially about how many people (including them) work much more than they are actually paid to, and I have to decide if this is something I am willing to do for my career. While I fully understand that this is the case, and have gone above and beyond in previous jobs (which paid me for my overtime), I'm still a non-exempt, hourly employee (aka eligible for overtime) and don't have the free time to work much extra (let alone for free) since I am a full-time student. How do I convey that I am dedicated to my job and want to succeed but not willing to work extra hours for free?

— My Labor Isn’t Free

Dear My Labor Isn't Free,

Wow! What they asked you to do is super illegal. If you are on staff, you should be paid for every single minute that you work. Unless they’re prepared to pay you for your overtime, they shouldn’t ask you to stay extra. Unfortunately, we aren’t surprised by their attitude about this — too many people think that workers have to put in unpaid hours to prove their dedication to social justice, which is not true. It’s this mentality that validates unpaid internships too! We also recognize that it can be awkward for you to raise this with a supervisor, as you may experience retaliation or not get a good recommendation when you apply for another position.

Given that, we’d suggest you ask for a one-on-one conversation with your supervisor, Human Resources manager, or the Executive Director and explain what the situation is and that you’re unable to work unpaid hours. Ask for support in communicating this to your boss. Chances are, you aren’t the only person receiving this message. You can even offer to manage up. This might mean, for example, that when you’re getting close to the end of your hours each week, clearly share that with your boss and ask them to help you prioritize which tasks they’d like you to get done in those hours, and what can wait until the following week. If they ask you to do more, then ask if you’re approved for overtime, and if not, remind them that due to your state’s labor laws, you can’t be working off the clock. 

Remember, your value and dedication isn’t measured by you working yourself overtime and for free. Do your job, do it well, and do it all on the clock

Love,

ReproJobs