I was late to the "office", that hunk of Detroit's finest that is parked in my Driveway. I didn't start my day till 7:30 am.

I hear shops all the time tell me the "extra" work they do that they are not paid for. I have this large useless "mobile office" that sets in the driveway. It takes up space and drives my neighbors crazy. Then as part of a "restructure", I get the benefit of working from home. Who's benefit is it? One room in my house now has the computer, printer, fax machine, office phone, etc. I get no compensation (rent) for this and since I'm "at home" they feel that working on paperwork in the evening after my kids sleep or on the weekend really isn't work because I'm at home. " I need to understand that no job is really 9 to 5?" What the heck is that about? Heck I'd take 8 to 6, right now I'm putting in 12 to 13 hour days for nothing. Shops still hate you, customers still hate you and your KPI's are never good enough.

Anyway..... My day started late and I was already 11 or so files behind from yesterday. Then we had to stop mid day for a "conference call" (2 1/2 hours!!!) sometimes I think the only reason we have these is someone has to feel important. Just how am I supposed to do my "work" with all these "business calls". You know we get it, were all going broke. We know you're laying off more people and that means yet more claims I have to see and the days and my paycheck are not getting any longer. Of course I could be the next layoff.

It didn't help when a shop called to tell me they expected me at the shop before noon, as it was "Bad Faith" to let a supplement set over 24 hours. If I was not there by noon today they were going to file a complaint. They would also charge a bay storage fee for the time it set waiting on me? Really? Do they think that makes me move faster? I'm already not eating, sleeping or seeing my family.... I MAY see that car Friday! Of course when your on COD with every part supplier, I would imagine my supplement and draft has very little to do with the customers car.

I've been in this business over 20 years and I can't for the life of me figure out just where we left the tracks.

Walmart basket herder looks like a better job everyday.........