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Being exploited in the workplace can be a very frustrating and unnerving experience. On the one hand, you want to stand up for your "rights" and defend your dignity, but on the other hand you don't want to put yourself in a position where you might lose your job. Losing your job may be a very real possibility, particularly if your employer lacks enough respect for you that they are exploiting you. While you can always look for a new job, it is often a time-consuming and sometimes difficult process depending on your situation in life.

PICK YOUR BATTLES

Of course, there are different levels of exploitation, ranging from taking someone for granted to blatantly extracting work from someone without compensation. It may sound like an overused cliche, but it is often important to try and put things in perspective and "pick your battles". In other words, evaluate whether or not each conflict is truly worth fighting. There is exploitation in the work place, but there are also situations where an employer just isn't very kind to their employees. This isn't so much exploitation, but rather bad management.

COMPLAIN TO THE RIGHT PEOPLE

Depending on the company and the working climate, you can always complain. If you are bold enough, you can complain to your supervisor, though this may seem like insubordination to an insecure manager. In other situations you can complain to Human Resources (if that department exists) but this should always be done with caution. Before complaining, make sure you are aware of the management climate. If you have a supervisor that is exploiting you and is also friends with HR, you may find that you do not have many allies. Survey the landscape before putting forth a complaint.

HIT THE ROAD

While you want to consider job departures very careful, you can always leave your current job. There are always work situations where you should stick it out and continue to earn a living even if you aren't being treated in total fairness. Then again, there is also dignity to consider and sometimes exploitation takes enough of a toll on you that it starts to work against your general productivity. In those cases, it may be time to start anew in a different environment.

Whatever you decide to do about being exploited, take some time to consider your plan. Talk to friends and colleagues, and be ready with contingency plans.

Learn more about this author, Todd Pheifer.
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