Overemployment is a theory of American sociologist Andrew Ross that refers to the exploitation of workers by expecting them to be available 24/7.
Overemployment developed in the late 20th century knowledge economy as creative workers were given more freedom in the workplace to set their own schedules. Employers encouraged creative thinking by allowing casual dress, relaxed schedules, and freedom of movement. They also provided play areas, toys, and snacks. Employers then took advantage of this supposed freedom to expand work availability and responsibilities not in job descriptions.
With the rise of smart devices that make constant communication easy and expected, overemployment has entered the service economy as well.
Overemployment developed in the late 20th century knowledge economy as creative workers were given more freedom in the workplace to set their own schedules. Employers encouraged creative thinking by allowing casual dress, relaxed schedules, and freedom of movement. They also provided play areas, toys, and snacks. Employers then took advantage of this supposed freedom to expand work availability and responsibilities not in job descriptions.
With the rise of smart devices that make constant communication easy and expected, overemployment has entered the service economy as well.
One worker response to overemployment is "work to rule" where employees do only the minimum required in their contract. In the 21st century, this is similar to "quiet quitting," where employees work only their contracted hours and responsibilities.
"I thought he said we were never gonna work past seven." —Annie Baker, The Antipodes