So many people have messaged me about their company implementing Compulsory Leave during this Chinese New Year.
Honestly, I don’t encourage you to lodge a case at JTK (Labour Department), because the consequences can be far worse when the boss finds out you’ve taken such extreme measures. It’s almost like burning a bridge.
Here’s what I suggest instead: negotiate. Instead of taking the compulsory leave, offer to work during that time.
Depending on your role, propose to stay at work. If you’re trusted to hold the office keys, offer to work from the office. If not, suggest working from home. Volunteer to be the backup contact for customers when everyone else is off. Include your contact information in a colleague’s out-of-office reply.
Prepare a list of tasks you can accomplish during this period and present it to your boss as part of the negotiation. But be prepared – it’s not going to be easy to hold the fort alone.
That said, here’s my personal (unpopular) opinion. If you have more than 12 annual leave days per year, and it’s just 1-2 days of compulsory leave, maybe just close one eye and let it go. Take the time off and chillax instead of creating conflict.
It’s more harmonious this way. Think about it.
xoxoxo, AuntyHR
