To think being “passionate about your job” is just code for being exploited?

56 replies

ThatMintyCritic · 19/08/2025 14:46

The second an employer hears you’re “passionate,” suddenly you’re working longer hours, doing unpaid extras, and burning out. AIBU to think “passion” is just code for “we can underpay you?”

OP posts:

MurdoMunro · 19/08/2025 16:24

Yeah. Words like passionate, fast paced, flexible, self starter etc are red flags at 45 degree angles. I view with narrowed eyes.

CarpetKnees · 19/08/2025 16:13

I think YABU.

I agree with @KrisAkabusi

I want people working for me who really care about what they do.

I do also agree that historically, there are whole sectors that are underpaid or have poor T&C because they "have a vocation" and they are the type of people who won't let down those they are supporting, and they are taken advantage of.

KrisAkabusi · 19/08/2025 15:42

Disagree. I want somebody passionate working for me. Its a niche role. If you're not passionate about the subject, you'll probably find it boring. But if you are, you can be rewarded with a fullfulling job with lots of travel to unusual places, a very varied working week, and learn a lot of skills that will be useful when looking for promotion.

wizzywig · 19/08/2025 14:50

Sums up most public sector

fourelementary · 19/08/2025 14:49

Yup. Sums up nursing tbh

Poopeepoopee · 19/08/2025 14:49

Yes, if an employer thinks your a good employee they will try to exploit you. This is why I'm a big fan of the "do just enough work to not get the sack" approach..

Its a bit like when they put "must be flexible" in the job description when what they really mean is "must stay late and do unpaid overtime regularly". The flexibiity never works in the employees favour!

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