It hurts to hear a_person and others being practically bullied (imo) into working free overtime. For what its worth I'll tell you guys about what I did.
I worked for a big footwear company whose headquarters was in California. Because of the 8 hours difference our bosses would be starting their working day as we come to the end of ours. About 2 times a week, I had to stay back at work to attend teleconference meetings which would sometimes go on for 1-2 hours. My London boss would of course not offer any p*y and would try to make us feel guilty if we didnt think of the good of the company. In my early time with them I surrenedered to this bullyish tactic just to keep it sweet. But then later I thought, naa this aint right, so I told my boss politely that I understand these meetings are important but it is robbing my free time, so out of my own generosity I will continue these meetings but please raise my salary to compensate. That didnt happen but it did start a negotiation resulting in having leiu days in compensation and it was quite noticeable that my boss started to respect me a bit more, though was still bullyish.
I know in every office there is always politics of different nature but it seems to me that it all derives from insecurities and that every worker including directors and managers are replaceable but if you work hard within your official hours for the company, then you know yourself that you do the work you are supposed to do regardless of the odd mistakes we can make now and again which everyone does. Dont give a damn what anyone else thinks, just do your job. If they dont appreciate you then simply dont do them any favours like working overtime. And if you think your job is under threat just relish the challenge of keeping it while also look ahead to getting a better job. I know its easier said, and I admittedly put my hand up for not always practicing what I am preaching here in the past but keep trying.
A good workout is a great way to unwind those stresses too....ooops where did I spring that one from
