I've found myself in a surprising and challenging situation after my supervisor left. I was hired as a standard IT employee, but now I'm the sole IT person in my company and suddenly expected to be on call 24/7 without any adjustments in my pay, title, or bonus eligibility. My responsibilities have increased dramatically, and I'm not even being compensated fairly for these extra hours. I originally believed I would be rewarded for this hard work, especially since the previous IT manager earned significantly more than I do now. I'm also struggling with documentation issues and outdated technology, which complicates my job even further. Has anyone else dealt with a sudden change in their role like this without any recognition or support? How did you manage it?
5 Answers
Honestly, I'd say start applying for other jobs. This is just ridiculous. You shouldn't be on call 24/7 without proper compensation or support. Your health and well-being matter more than any job.
I was in a similar spot once. I gave my management an ultimatum for better pay or I walked out. I ended up leaving and found a much better job that respected my time.
They're clearly taking advantage of you. Don't feel bad about leaving on a whim if they don’t appreciate your efforts. Just straight up resign. You're clearly being overworked and underpaid... it's time to find a healthier work environment.
It's true! If they try to make excuses, just remember they can push your buttons but they can't replace your expertise that easily.
I've walked this path before. If you keep quiet, it only leads to burnout. Find a new job, and when you leave, let them know exactly how their management style led to your departure. Life's too short to be stuck in a toxic job like this.
A hundred percent agree. I've done the same and found better places that appreciate your skills.
And don't forget to document everything; you want to have all the details ready before walking away.
I think the best course of action is to start looking for a new job while still working there. On the job, DO ONLY what you were originally hired for, and don’t take on more responsibilities without proper compensation. They can't fire you because they need you, and it sends a message that you're not willing to be pushed around.
Exactly! Throttle back your work to what's in your contract and protect your time.
Plus, they might act like they don't need you now, but when things start breaking, they'll realize the value you bring.
It sounds like your situation is not unique, and a lot of IT folks face these pressures when there's insufficient staff. I'd recommend explicitly stating that you can't support on-call duties without a raise or title change—otherwise, they may just keep piling on expectations, assuming you'll comply.
Yeah, they often use 'company policy' as an excuse when they want you to absorb more responsibilities without any change.
Check your local labor laws. There’s often guidelines about overtime that they might be violating.
And maybe start calling in sick more often. You deserve your time off!