"CatNipped" wrote in message
...
....
The problem... I think I've become a perpetual "victim". This is the
second boss in a row who is being really abusive to me. ... Hugs,
CatNipped

Hi Catnipped,

Before you do anything, go to Google and search the words "workplace
bullies." You'll find that this is a real problem and there are ways to
combat it. I speak from experience that being the target of a workplace
bully can cause serious damage to your self esteem. Stress also can affect
your ability to function on and off the job.

Also, look for information on combating test taking fears. If you can do
the job, it seems that you should be able to pass the test. It's not clear
if you took a test and didn't pass, or you are just assuming that you
wouldn't pass if you took it. Perhaps you can get a study course to help
you prep for the test or take a pretest of some kind you could gain some
self confidence.

I understand that you are apprehensive about the cost. That is pretty
steep. But, if you can find some way to invest in the preparation and
manage to pass, not only will you keep this job, you will be more employable
for a job someplace else.

If the certification is a job requirement, you should have been told this
when you were hired. Sometimes people will be hired for a position and
given a period of time to complete the requirement. If the certification
is a job requirement, your boss probably is being generous by "letting" you
stay on since your stated position is that you can't pass the test. He may
need to revise your duties to conform with company policy.

However, just piling more work onto your job duties isn't fair. Watch out
for the word "administration" in the title. If you are forced to work more
than 40 hours a week, you will be entitled to overtime if you are on an
hourly wage. It does not apply to some "administrative" positions, which
are exempt from this protection. I believe these must be supervisory
positions, but don't take my word on it.

If the certification is not a requirement and your co-workers are doing web
development without it, it seems to me that you are being singled out and
mistreated by being pressured to spend your own money to take the tests as
well as having your job duties changed.

Unfortunately, Texas is a state where you can be fired "at will," as long as
it is not because of some form of illegal discrimination. Of course,
proving that it is illegal discrimination can be about impossible. Also, as
I understand it, harassment itself is not specifically prohibited by law,
unless it is sexual or against protected groups.

Because you are having such a hard time finding a different job, you might
ask yourself what skills you have that could be used in a different line of
work. Maybe you need a change.

Also, check with the temporary employment agencies. See what they can offer
you for work and an evaluation of why you are having problems getting hired.
It may be the workplace. Or, you may be unaware of something you are doing
to sabotage your efforts.

If you are good at what you do, with a temporary agency, you could end up
working full time while making connections that will net you a permanent
job. Some of the temporary agencies also offer benefits and training to
develop new job skills or those you already have.

Good luck with your search. Skritches for your kitties.

Annie

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