I was wondering about your view on the phrase “stepping up”. In my experience, the term has been used to pressure already overworked and underpaid staff into tasks and roles that push them beyond their available time, job description and even their ability. But there is never mention of extra training or pay increases. The only benefit is that it will be good for “personal development”.

In one case I’m aware of, a colleague succumbed to this pressure, and found the new position was actually two roles combined. It was impossible to do in the set hours. When they raised their struggles with their superiors, they were accused of failing to stretch themselves. They quit, and to add insult to injury, the combined role was then split back to the original two!

It seems “stepping up” is a way for a company to squeeze so much out of their employees that it breaks them. Not only does that seem toxic, it seems inhumane. Is it okay?

Being asked to take on additional responsibilities at work can be an opportunity, but your employer could also be taking advantage of you.Credit: John Shakespeare

“Stepping up” is a corporate buzzword that doesn’t quite have the........

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