Article for Cynopsis email newsletter WHAT IF YOU'RE ASKED TO DO MORE, OR WORK LONGER HOURS? By Mark Levine Businesses in which increased hours on the job will result in increased revenue—such as a retailer or a firm that bills by the hour—always have the option of asking employees to work increased hours without additional pay, in order to boost their bottom lines. And firms which use outside vendors for any part of their work flow—say payroll or bookkeeping—see bringing these chores in house, without increasing employee pay, as a way to save money in trying economic times. It's inarguable that both of these moves are unfair. You're being asked to work more, but you aren't being paid more. But unfairness is something you probably need to accept as part of keeping your job in today's difficult economic environment. If you're asked to work longer hours in an effort to help the company's finances, all you can do is profess your gratitude for having a job and your willingness to do what you can to help keep the company healthy. You don’t have to act as if you like it, but you should demonstrate that you're a pro and are ready to accept the decision. If, on the other hand, your workload or responsibilities are increased without a corresponding increase in pay, you probably should put on a bit more of a performance. There's nothing you can do to fight this move, since it will mark you as being either disloyal or a shirker. Instead, use this as an opportunity to reduce expectations and perhaps plant the seeds for future opportunities. Thank your boss for the vote of confidence, admit that you're not an expert on this new task, but promise you'll do your very best. Then, note that you're always willing to take on whatever the company needs from you, both today and in the future.