Should you do more than you are paid to do?

Photo by Carter Yocham on Unsplash

Called an old friend out of lunch yesterday as I happened to be at a meeting in the building where he worked.

He is now near retirement but still has the uncommon energy and drive of a man decades younger. In my country, once the retirement age is hit, employers mostly offer year-on-year contract jobs at reduced compensation.

His boss very readily offered him a contract to continue working, albeit on a reduced salary. He was also assigned to a job that he was more than qualified and experienced to do.

But get this. As a contract worker, he isn't going to be given more pay. At least not in this current contract tenure. And he isn't eligible for a profit-sharing/performance bonus as contract staff. However, he would be up for a better end-of-contract gratuity if he does do more.

He just wants to contribute and leverage his years of experience and knowledge for the betterment of his team. I don't think many will willingly do more and go above-and-beyond - basically do more without clamouring for more salary - simply because they can.

It seemed very transactional these days. Mercenary, even in some places. But I think leaders/ bosses/ supervisors must recognise those who go the extra mile. We must express our appreciation and thanks. And then when opportune, reward these team members who have done over-and-above what they should do.

Also, we need not subscribe to the stereotype that older employees should be put out to pasture cos they no longer have drive, ideas nor the ability to bring value.

I do respect my friend for his drive. As I am far from the statutory retirement age, it is hard for me to imagine whether I will be like him. Now, what about yourself?