Unfair Shift Change After Joining a Startup: How Can I Address This with HR?

Hi, I am an IT employee working in sales. I joined a startup in May 2024. I was hired via a third-party recruitment firm. They told me multiple times that my shift would be from 5 pm to 2 am. However, once I joined the office, I was asked to work from 8 pm to 5 am. This is something I did not want to do. When I informed HR, she was told by her manager that I could either take the shift or leave. Another girl who was hired under the same circumstances was offered the day shift role. When I asked if this was something I could do too, I was told she is married and has in-laws. If there is anyone who can advise me on how to handle this, I would appreciate it.

Also, I am the only female employee during the night shift. I do not feel safe.

Dear member,

It is unprofessional not to fulfill the commitment given during recruitment. However, you have been given a choice to continue the evening shift or quit. This choice is yours alone. We, the members of this forum, are outsiders and cannot comment on it.

Factors Influencing Employment Decisions

Two factors drive people to take up employment. The first one is the realization of one's intellectual worth. The second one is financial needs or domestic responsibilities. Perhaps, you come under the second category. Therefore, you need to decide how severe your financial needs are. If they are not severe, you may discontinue the job and look for another one.

Job Market Considerations

However, is getting a job that easy? Before making the decision, please check the condition of the job market. It is shrinking. Second, every day of your employment adds value to your CV. You are acquiring experience day by day. If you have experience, then and then only you can crow about it in the future. Otherwise, not!

Financial Independence

Third, whatever the level of the job may be, it provides financial independence. But it comes at a price. Will you be able to have financial independence as much as being unemployed? Please deliberate.

Safety Concerns During Night Shifts

The next thing to consider is your fear of being a lonely woman during the night shift. Your night shift colleagues also have their family responsibilities, are driven by their career aspirations, and above all, are expected to be sensible enough to know the consequences of effrontery. Yes, a lonely woman during the night shift is expected to feel uneasy, however, you are working in Bengaluru, which is famous for women's safety and not for lascivious workplaces! Nevertheless, you may try finding a like-minded person with whom you can confide. Above all, workplaces provide a channel to vent one's feelings.

Quality of Work Environment

Lastly, your decision should also depend on the quality of the work environment. How is your manager? Does he or she demonstrate managerial qualities? Will you be able to imbibe those qualities by closely monitoring his or her actions? Please ponder.

Thanks,

Dinesh Divekar

Considering Your Options in Employment

Quitting may seem like the only option left to you. In employment, HR often paints rosy pictures, but those are not always reliable. The conditions laid down in an appointment letter hold legal weight. It is important to adjust and compromise with the situation instead of comparing yourself to other employees. Continue until you secure the job of your choice. Working hours from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am are considerably better than a shift that ends at 2 am for safety reasons, but everyone has their own preferences.

Before coming to a conclusion, please consider these aspects:

1) Will the "wait and watch" approach solve your problem over time?

2) Do you like the job, and will this experience provide ample opportunities to seek better job offers and job satisfaction?

3) What's your financial position? Will you be able to secure an alternative offer, and how long will it take for you to find a better job of your choice?

4) Did you sign any bond or give any written commitment for a minimum period of service in your present job?

5) I may be wrong, but I still ask this: Considering the promised timing, were you planning for another commitment/job during the daytime or planning to take up a course? That plan didn't work out, and now you are disappointed, isn't it true?

Answers to these questions might help you find a solution or make a conscious decision. You are the better judge. All the best.

I would like to add my views. Due to unclear communication from the recruiter about the shift timing, you are facing problems. Now you should approach the situation with understanding and a focus on resolution.

Understanding the need for flexibility

We need to understand that different departments and roles might require varying degrees of flexibility, especially in a sales role where client interactions are paramount. In the sales department, shift timings are often determined by the geographical zones of our clients to ensure effective communication and service delivery.

As you have already agreed to work the night shift from 8 PM to 5 AM, it is crucial to maintain flexibility in your approach. This flexibility is key to adapting to the dynamic nature of sales, where client needs and business demands can change frequently.

Performance and future adjustments

Generating leads and meeting targets are vital aspects of your role, and once you start showing consistent performance, the company is likely to be more accommodating to your requests regarding shifts or other preferences.

Consideration for future adjustments

While the company may consider your request for a change in shift timings, this will typically occur when it aligns with business needs and operational feasibility. Patience is essential as adjustments may take time, and the company must balance multiple factors to ensure overall efficiency and client satisfaction.

If the current shift timings and work environment are not meeting your needs, then explore other opportunities that might better align with your personal and professional preferences.

Consider discussing this issue with a higher-level manager or seeking advice from a labor rights organization to understand your options and rights in this matter.