The Abuse of Power and the exploitation of young professionals

It's alarming how often young professionals face exploitation in the workplace. Eager to prove themselves, they often encounter unpaid internships, excessive workloads, or lack of proper guidance. Many are pressured into long hours with little compensation, under the pretext of gaining “experience.”

This isn’t about a few bad employers—it’s a systemic issue. Those in power exploit young talent, creating a toxic work culture that prioritizes profit over well-being. Young professionals deserve respect, fair treatment, and proper compensation. It's time to hold abusers accountable.

Abuse of power or authority is less overt at times and may be camouflaged as normality. There are, however, some signs to look out for:

• Unreasonable Demands: Excessive workloads or unrealistic expectations that disregard well-being.
• Lack of Respect: Dismissive behavior, belittling, or favoritism.
• Manipulation: Emotional control, gaslighting, or coercion to violate personal values.
• Exploitation: Unpaid work, taking credit for others’ achievements.
• Abuse of Authority: Micromanagement, withholding opportunities, or retaliation.
• Culture of Fear: Intimidation, isolation, or exclusion from key decisions.

Here are some tips to help you respond, if you find yourself in a situation described as above:

• Document everything: Emails, conversations, and actions.
• Find allies: In colleagues or mentors.
• Know your rights: Research labor laws and company policies.
• Seek external advice: Consult legal experts if needed.

Creating a respectful and fair workplace requires advocating for yourself and others.

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