Ink before you leap

Posted on the June 9th, 2008 under Careers & Education by Philippe Desrochers

Question:

I was recently hired by a company who told me they would have a contract waiting for me to sign when I get started. Weeks passed with no mention of the contract. I started getting nervous. A week later they let me go. Can they do this?

Answer:

Yes they can. Your situation reminds me of that of a close friend of mine. He was a recent engineering grad who had spent many years in academia. When he received his first offer to work in his field he was ecstatic.

He began his work with excitement as he was earning a paycheque for the very first time. Even though he had other expenses to cover, he treated himself to a new wardrobe with his very first cheque.

I found out that he had not yet signed his contract. They told him: “The VP is out of town and you will sign the papers upon his return.” Other excuses went on for another month even after the VP returned. Then they let him go with no explanation. He was devastated.

Respect:

When he did not press for a signed contract he lost the respect of his employer.

Commitment:

It is far easier to let an employee go if there is no signed contract. Many unethical companies abuse their employees by procrastinating on a signed contract and then letting you go for no reason. However, there are some reputable corporations that ask their staff to take on responsibilities that are beyond their scope with no extra remuneration. It is your responsibility to ask for fair compensation.

Next step:

If you are working without a contract then go to your boss and say: “It is very important for me in my commitment to your company that I sign the contract.”

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