The Audacity to Be Paid

I searched for work in my field for 2 years before finding a part-time contract position. This was also a leading role. After receiving over 30+ rejection emails or calls, I rejoiced at the new opportunity and the breakthrough.

I have now been working with this company for six months. I have only received payment from my work, on time, for 2 months. Payment per my contract should be delivered, monthly during the first week of the month. Like clockwork, the week leading up to the payday is filled with Conversations that involve validating my work or verifying that my hours are correct. He's gotten so much that I have gradually reduced the reporting of my hours.

Unfortunately, I am in a tough spot. I want to be able to have the accolades on my resume in building a company from the ground. Not being paid is the greatest way to remove motivation from me.

I'm not the only one in the situation. There are many private contractors who work in marketing or creative that have issues with invoices and are not being compensated for the work. This work is crucially undervalued and leaves the professional vulnerable without protection. Filing for unemployment is not an option work for private contractors or for companies with only one employee. Some companies that hire out private contractors, only list the owner(s) as full-time employees. This means they do not pay unemployment insurance.

So, here I am seeking work while working approx. 30 hours per week. If I invoice anything more than 11 hours, my hours are scrutinized and questioned.

I am unable to claim unemployment.

I refuse to work until I am paid. There may be a generational gap or some sort of disconnect. I have been present in a conversation where the most repeated statement was “I can't see that you're working because we are not in an office together". Those who employ people misunderstand the direction that the workforce is setting in. Especially if they seek a remote workforce, you have to understand that, working remotely does not equate to not working. The world is virtual by default. Questioning my hours questions my integrity. If there is no trust, please do not seek a remote team.

Independent contractors are very vulnerable in 2021. we have to go, without being paid. It is a nasty world out there. Mini are desperate for work and building a résumé to land that perfect job. Many small businesses are very aware of this and are taking advantage of these workers at staggering rates. The current largest group of working creative professionals and marketers are millennials. Millennials also have a reputation for not staying with companies long. This environment that pursues candidates in their desperation will lead to an even more fickle workforce.

If you are an employer that pays, on time, for work, feel to contact me.
tiaraburns.com

My LinkedIn profile here