If you’re reading this, it’s likely that you’ve been in the same situation I was in not too long ago – my boss cut my hours to make me quit, and you’re wondering if it’s because they’re trying to get you to quit.

It’s a story that we hear all too often – an employee is suddenly and inexplicably given fewer hours, or their workload is increased to an impossible level, in an attempt to get them to quit.

In many cases, it’s just a way for the boss to avoid having to fire someone. But whatever the motivation, it’s a terrible way to treat someone.

If you find yourself in this situation, it can be difficult to know what to do. After all, you need the money and you can’t just quit. But you also can’t keep working in a hostile and toxic environment. Here are some tips for how to deal with a boss who is trying to make you quit:

My Boss Cut My Hours to Make Me Quit: What Should I Do?

If you think your boss is cutting your hours to try and make you quit, go and talk to your boss, try to improve your performance, look for a new job, or ask for better benefits to make up for the lost hours. And if all else fails, you can always quit.

Boss Cut My Hours

1. Talk to your boss

The first thing you should do if you think your boss is trying to make you quit is to talk to them about it. This can be a difficult conversation, but it’s important to try and clear the air. See if there is anything that can be done to improve the situation.

Find out why your hours have been cut. There should be a reason behind the decision, and it may be something that can be worked out.

If your boss is simply trying to make you quit, then there’s not much that can be done. But if there are other factors at play, then it may be possible to come to a resolution.

2. Ask for more hours

If your boss has cut your hours, one thing you can do is to ask for more hours. This may not be possible in all cases, but it’s worth a try.

Explain to your boss that you need the money and are willing to work more hours. They may be able to give you some extra hours or at least give you a better schedule.

3. Improve your performance

After speaking with your boss, take a look at your performance. If your hours have been cut due to poor performance, then you need to take steps to improve. This may include working harder and/or smarter, being more efficient, or taking on new responsibilities.

Talk to your boss about what they expect from you and try to meet those expectations. It’s important to show your boss that you’re willing to work hard and turn things around. This may not be easy, but it’s important to try.

4. Look for a new job

If you’ve tried talking to your boss and improving your performance, and nothing has changed, then it may be time to start looking for a new job.

In some cases, the best option may be to simply quit. If your boss is making your working life miserable and there’s no hope for improvement, then it may be time to move on.

This can be difficult, especially if you like your current job, but it may be the best option. Start by updating your resume and begin applying for new positions.

You don’t want to stay at a place where you’re not valued or appreciated. Start sending out resumes and networking like crazy. And in the meantime, don’t let your job performance suffer – that will just give your boss more ammunition against you.

5. Know your rights

Finally, if all else fails, consult an attorney about your options. There are laws in place to protect employees from being treated unfairly. They can advise you on what to do and help you take legal action if necessary.

It’s important to take action if you think your boss is trying to make you quit. By talking to them, improving your performance, and/or looking for a new job, you can take control of the situation.

Why Do Employers Cut Hours?

There are a few reasons why an employer may choose to cut an employee’s hours. The most common reasons are:

  • Save money on labor costs
  • To punish an employee for poor performance
  • To reduce the workload of employees who are overworked
  • Decrease in demand for the company’s products or services
  • Reduce the size of its workforce due to financial difficulties
  • To force an employee to quit

If your boss has cut your hours, it’s important to try and find out why. In some cases, there may be a reasonable explanation. But in other cases, your boss may be trying to make you quit.

Whatever the reason, cutting employee hours can have a significant impact on both the workers and the company.

For employees, it can lead to a decrease in income and an increased difficulty in making ends meet. For companies, it can lead to a decrease in productivity and a loss of qualified workers.

As such, it is important for employers to carefully consider the consequences of cutting employee hours before taking such a step.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you sue your employer for cutting your hours?

If you signed an employment contract or bargaining agreement that specifies a certain number of hours, then your employer may be in breach of contract if they cut your hours without cause. You may be able to sue for damages.

2. Can I refuse to change my working hours?

Yes, an employee can refuse to change their hours if they feel that it would cause them undue hardship or it violates their employment agreement.

However, the employer can still make the change if they feel it is necessary and the employee does not have a justifiable reason for refusing.

3. What are your rights if your boss tries to make you quit?

If your boss is cutting your hours or taking other actions in an attempt to force you to quit, they may be guilty of constructive discharge.

This is when an employer makes working conditions so intolerable that a reasonable person would feel forced to resign. If this has happened to you, you may have a legal claim against your employer.

4. Can you get unemployment benefits if you quit because of your boss?

If you quit because of an illegal reason, such as discrimination or harassment, then you may be eligible for benefits.

However, if you quit due to a legitimate business reason, such as a reduction in hours, then you likely would not be eligible for unemployment benefits.

5. How do I deal with a toxic work environment?

Talking directly to your boss or supervisor, looking for a new job, or consulting with an attorney are all possible ways to deal with a toxic work environment.

Final Words

No one deserves to be treated this way by their boss – but unfortunately, it happens all too often. If you find yourself in a situation where your boss is cutting hours to make you quit, don’t despair; there are ways to fight back and protect yourself.

Remember, you have rights as an employee, and you shouldn’t hesitate to assert them if your boss is mistreating you. If all else fails, consult with an attorney to discuss your legal options.

Do you think your boss is trying to make you quit? What have you done about it? Let us know in the comments below.