That's the theory. What I've seen repeatedly is that Exempt employees are required to work forty hours per week but are usually expected to put in far more hours...without pay. "It's part of being a professional." or "It's part of being a team player." More than once I've been called to task because I don't put in more than forty hours. They even suggest working from home on the weekends, telecommuting.

My reply is:

"When I got hired I specifically mentioned that I cannot work more than forty hours. I have a family to take care of and work to do at home. I will not *EVER* place business over work."

But what I really want to say is:

1. I expect to get paid for my work. I'm not a chump.

2. My personal time and work time don't mix because I have a life outside work that I consider more important.

3. Don't try to turn me into a work-aholic or a corporate slave.

4. You want me to work more hours? Fine, hire me a responsible person to pick up my kids, get them home and check their homework, make dinner, do laundry, and fend off stupid telemarketers."

5. You want me to telecommute? Fine, buy me a new dedictaed-work computer, a DSL line, and hire a responsible person to help watch over the kids, fed them, and do the weekend chores."

And you know what happens? At review time I consistently get dinged for not being a player, for not sacrificing myself for the company. This, despite that I get the work done without complaint from my customers. In fact, I get glowing reviews for my work but I'm not a team player.

At least I have a life!