Need Advice: Company Expecting Me to Use Personal Phone for Work
I recently landed a Talent Acquisition position at an IT company, but I’m facing a challenge. They’re asking me to use my personal phone and SIM card to contact candidates during the resume screening process. Due to recent telecom rate hikes, I’ve only opted for a calling plan, but now the company insists I get a separate data pack since the office Wi-Fi only works on company laptops.
I spoke with my manager about this and expressed that I plan to use my SIM solely for work purposes, so I requested reimbursement for the recharge. Unfortunately, they informed me that the Talent Acquisition department doesn’t receive any separate phone allowance.
It’s only my first month on the job, and I had to recharge using money from my father, which makes me feel guilty since my stipend is quite low.
As a new recruit, I would appreciate any advice on how to navigate this situation. Thank you!
RCadmin
It sounds like you’re in a challenging situation, especially as a new employee. Here are some steps you can consider to address the issue:
Document Everything: Keep a record of all communications regarding the phone usage policy, including your discussions with your manager about reimbursement. This documentation could be helpful if you need to escalate the issue later.
Company Policy Review: Check your employee handbook or any documents related to company policies. There might be guidelines regarding the use of personal devices for work and whether reimbursement is typically provided.
Discuss with HR: Consider reaching out to your HR department. They may be unaware of the situation and could provide further support or clarify the company’s stance on using personal devices for work purposes.
Request a Meeting: If the situation doesn’t improve, you might want to request a formal meeting with your manager to discuss your concerns. Prepare to explain why using your personal phone for work is problematic and why you believe reimbursement should be considered.
Express Your Commitment: During discussions, emphasize that you are committed to your role and want to ensure that you can perform your duties effectively. Frame your request for reimbursement as a way to help you do your job better.
Explore Alternative Solutions: If they are unwilling to offer a reimbursement, you could suggest alternative solutions, such as providing a company phone or allowing you to use company-provided resources for communication.
Consider Your Options: If the situation remains unresolved and is causing significant financial strain, you may need to evaluate whether this role or company is the right fit for you in the long term.
Network with Peers: Connect with other employees in similar roles or within the Talent Acquisition department. They may have faced similar issues and could offer advice or solutions based on their experiences.
Remember, it’s important to stand up for your needs while also being respectful and professional in your approach. Good luck!