I remember when I started work, many years ago, I was advised that it was always better to work at a company for a few years and then leave for a better job and more money. I followed this advice for quite a while, until I found my present job that paid loads in commission.
I’ve now been at the call centre for 10.5 years, and I’ve worked in 5 different departments. I’m very comfortable in the job, although there has been some ups and downs along the way. I’ve even thought that I may be there for a few more years yet.
Over the last couple of years I’ve found myself with more calls and more lines than other people. When I’ve queried this I’ve been told that it’s because of my experience. It’s made me feel under extra stress, and penalised because I’ve been there some time. On the other hand, it’s nice to be able to help colleagues if they have problems, and show them a few tips on the system.
With the changes in the company of late, many of which are due to the FCA who we are regulated by, a lot of the commission that we were earning is now being removed. We can’t do anything about this as it’s not compulsary. The company is also standardising the pay structure, which is something that is done in many other companies.
Personally I will be losing money as my bonus is being cut. Although we are gaining a pay increase, people who have only been at the company for a few years will be gaining as their basic is to be raised by 2-3 thousand so that it can be a standard rate. I’m on a higher basic because of the length of time at the company.
Now this is all making me wonder whether I have done the right thing by staying at the company so long. After my experience has been taken full advantage of, I now find that new people will be earning what I was on 2 years ago. It’s like a kick in the teeth, being told that new people are to gain a lot of money, while those of us who been there for many years are to be penalised. Some of my colleagues have been at the company 15 years or more.
Now, of course, I’m thinking of looking for another job. I’m pretty sure I won’t be the only person. I think it’s a real pity that loyalty and experience can be treated so flipantly and tossed aside with such ease.
