I've learned a hard lesson.

Anonymous

June 28,2022 at 1:47AM UTC

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I've learned a hard lesson. A previous co-worker and so called friend got me a job as an Cybersecurity Auditor.

It's been awful. This person sadly has no life outside of work, which is supported wholeheartedly by the customer. So, she (and they) have unreasonable expectations and give me unrealistic deadlines to complete projects. i.e., 4 weeks to complete a job which typically takes 3 months. Which she completes b/c she consistently works nights, holidays and weekends. I have no one to go to as this is a small company and has no HR etc. I do not mind working extra time occasionally for a "hot" deadline. But for the customer and her, it's expected for every project. What can I do?

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KatJune 28,2022 at 2:29AM UTC
If they're not willing to work with you on more reasonable project timelines, find another job. This isn't a good fit for you and there's no one that can help make it one due to the company size. Polish the resume, get the network activated and find a company that values you and has the work life balance you deserve.
AnonymousOctober 7,2022 at 4:30PM UTC
Working on it. Thanks!
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistJune 28,2022 at 2:31AM UTC
So you had the inside track to find out exactly what the work/life balance at this company would be like before you accepted the position. Did you drill down on this? Were they not truthful with you?
I'm not sure why she's you're "so-called" friend unless she lied to you.
You can either set boundaries or find another job - I'd suggest you fire up that resume.
AnonymousOctober 7,2022 at 4:30PM UTC
No, she was not forthcoming when I asked her about "work -life" balance.
In fact, she lied.
AnonymousJune 28,2022 at 2:58AM UTC
Nothing you can do regarding issues of company culture. They created a culture of unreasonable expectations because it works for them.
You options are:
1. Accept the culture and sacrifice your well-being to survive.
2. Create boundaries that are opposed to the company's culture and eventually be let go
3. Quit not before you waste time trying to survive and save your job
ShakeelaJune 28,2022 at 5:25AM UTC
I am a Certified Human Resource Professional, engineer and auditor as well.
I truly understand what you are going through. Actually, if CEOs/Owners/Shareholders have no education belonging to these professions, then it is very hard to convince the leadership.
I am suggesting you some speedy short ways before leaving job or taking any harsh step during this economic crises:
1. Check the security exchange commission (Organization which offers companies license). Ask them about rules regarding HR for companies. Because before authorizing a license ,SEC always gives guidance to companies’ owners regarding HR and pension schemes.
2. After research take your boss and colleagues to coffee or lunch and discuss issues logically by using reference of rules and regulations. keep your tone very polite, collaborative and humble. This act will increase your boss’s trust in you and your colleagues will be thankful to you as well.
3. Ask your leadership to join the relative country/city Chamber of Commerce as well.
4. Try to solve the problem before becoming a burden.
5. All companies are not big, SMEs are playing big part in economy, a small tree-plantation take a lot of time to become full fledge tree.
6. Always remember if you are an auditor, act as an auditor.
Good luck
AnonymousAugust 27,2022 at 10:22PM UTC
It's gotten worse. Now she "peer" reviews my projects, apparently makes changes to them and refuses to send me a copy!
Looking for something else.