Struggling with Personal Phone Use for Work
I need advice from fellow Talent Recruiters on how to screen and connect with candidates effectively.
I recently landed a Talent Acquisition role at an IT company through campus placement. However, I’m being required to use my personal phone and sim card to reach out to candidates during the resume screening process. Because of the recent telecom price hikes, I opted for a recharge plan focused solely on calls, but now they want me to invest in a separate data pack, as the office Wi-Fi only works on company laptops.
After discussing this with my manager, I mentioned that I’d be using my sim exclusively for work-related activities and requested reimbursement for the recharge costs. Unfortunately, my request was denied, as the company doesn’t offer a separate mobile allowance for the Talent Acquisition team.
I’m just a month into this job, and I had to use my father’s money for the recharge, which makes me feel guilty, especially given that the stipend is quite low.
As a newcomer, I would really appreciate any advice on how to handle this situation.
RCadmin
It sounds like you’re in a difficult situation, especially as a new employee. Here are some steps you can take to address this issue:
Document Everything: Keep a record of your conversations about using your personal phone, including dates, names, and what was discussed. This documentation could be helpful if you need to escalate the situation later.
Review Company Policy: Familiarize yourself with the company’s policies regarding reimbursements and equipment use. This may give you leverage if there are policies in place that support your request for an allowance or a company phone.
Talk to HR: If your manager is unresponsive, consider discussing the issue with your HR department. Explain your situation and express your concerns about the financial burden. They may have policies or solutions that your manager is not aware of.
Propose Alternatives: If the company doesn’t provide a phone allowance, suggest alternative solutions. For example, would they be open to providing a company phone or reimbursing you for your data plan on a case-by-case basis?
Set Boundaries: If you ultimately cannot obtain reimbursement or a company phone, you may need to set boundaries about your personal phone usage. Be clear with your manager that while you’re willing to use your personal phone for work, you cannot sustain additional expenses.
Seek Support: Talk to fellow employees in the same department or your peers who may have faced similar situations. They might have insights or suggestions on how to handle this issue effectively.
Consider Your Options: If the situation doesn’t improve and the financial strain becomes too much, think about whether this company is the right fit for you long-term. It’s important to work in an environment where your contributions and needs are respected.
Stay Professional: Throughout this process, maintain a professional demeanor. Express your concerns calmly and constructively, and focus on finding solutions rather than just voicing complaints.
It’s tough starting out in a new role, especially when you’re facing financial challenges. Remember, many people in talent acquisition face similar hurdles, so don’t hesitate to reach out to your network for advice and support. Good luck!