What can we do to stop prior company from asking us questions?Learning from CEO wreckage: what can I learn from this experience of failure?Is it appropriate to show Prior Offer Statements and Benefits from other companies to push for extra vacation time?What are the possible downsides of answering an “anonymous” employee survey truthfully?Should I demand payment of a promised, documented bonus revoked after giving my 2 weeks notice?What should I do if I received a mail from company about offer letter by post but a week passed out I haven't received yet?Placed on work schedule despite approved time-off request. Is it unreasonable to push back on this?I feel like my romantic feelings for my boss are getting in the way of my work. What other options do i have apart from quitting?Given an ultimatum, threatened with dismissalWhat can I do when my boss is driving the project I am working on to failure?What can I do if I suspect an “employer” is trying to obtain free development work from applicants?
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What can we do to stop prior company from asking us questions?
Learning from CEO wreckage: what can I learn from this experience of failure?Is it appropriate to show Prior Offer Statements and Benefits from other companies to push for extra vacation time?What are the possible downsides of answering an “anonymous” employee survey truthfully?Should I demand payment of a promised, documented bonus revoked after giving my 2 weeks notice?What should I do if I received a mail from company about offer letter by post but a week passed out I haven't received yet?Placed on work schedule despite approved time-off request. Is it unreasonable to push back on this?I feel like my romantic feelings for my boss are getting in the way of my work. What other options do i have apart from quitting?Given an ultimatum, threatened with dismissalWhat can I do when my boss is driving the project I am working on to failure?What can I do if I suspect an “employer” is trying to obtain free development work from applicants?
Short and sweet of it, I used to work as a manager/supervisor at a prior company that had us build various applications for them. I was there close to twenty years! In any event last year the company started struggling and things took a dive (upper management bickering, stock holders upset with the company, vision of company was no longer valid, competitors eating us alive, etc). One of my senior software engineers left prior to my departure and I eventually left as well.
I was able to quickly find a new home and a great place to work. Initially the old place kept asking me questions (I had to keep my phone number due to personal reasons) that were work related. It got to the point where each day they were asking 1-2 questions even after I left the company for three months. I got tired of it and finally told them I could no longer assist because I had my own priorities.
A few weeks back I actually hired another engineer that also worked at that prior company we both worked at. He too was tired of all the bickering, politics, and fallout from the board of directors and the ceo's. In any event, I hired him and he too is now getting contacted with more of their questions.
Is there anything I can do to simply tell them to bug off? We have our own priorities and it is their problem now not ours!
employer-relations
asked 6 hours ago
JonHJonH
1,0732920
add a comment |
Short and sweet of it, I used to work as a manager/supervisor at a prior company that had us build various applications for them. I was there close to twenty years! In any event last year the company started struggling and things took a dive (upper management bickering, stock holders upset with the company, vision of company was no longer valid, competitors eating us alive, etc). One of my senior software engineers left prior to my departure and I eventually left as well.
I was able to quickly find a new home and a great place to work. Initially the old place kept asking me questions (I had to keep my phone number due to personal reasons) that were work related. It got to the point where each day they were asking 1-2 questions even after I left the company for three months. I got tired of it and finally told them I could no longer assist because I had my own priorities.
A few weeks back I actually hired another engineer that also worked at that prior company we both worked at. He too was tired of all the bickering, politics, and fallout from the board of directors and the ceo's. In any event, I hired him and he too is now getting contacted with more of their questions.
Is there anything I can do to simply tell them to bug off? We have our own priorities and it is their problem now not ours!
employer-relations
asked 6 hours ago
JonHJonH
1,0732920
30
Easy: stop answering their calls. If you inadvertently answer the phone and realized it's them, hang up. You've trained them to keep calling you by answering their questions for three months!
– dwizum
6 hours ago
2
Change your phone number. Get a new phone. Stop taking their calls. Tell them to stop calling you. All of these would be effective.
– joeqwerty
5 hours ago
1
You answered you own question. It is their problem now not yours. So you just ignore them—it's not your problem, like you said.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
2
Offer to consult for them, at an hourly rate that you can't say no to.
– zundi
1 hour ago
1
Do they call from the same phone number (like a business number) or are the individual engineers calling? Modern mobiles allow you to block numbers, and is far easier than changing your own number.
– Tas
1 hour ago
add a comment |
Short and sweet of it, I used to work as a manager/supervisor at a prior company that had us build various applications for them. I was there close to twenty years! In any event last year the company started struggling and things took a dive (upper management bickering, stock holders upset with the company, vision of company was no longer valid, competitors eating us alive, etc). One of my senior software engineers left prior to my departure and I eventually left as well.
I was able to quickly find a new home and a great place to work. Initially the old place kept asking me questions (I had to keep my phone number due to personal reasons) that were work related. It got to the point where each day they were asking 1-2 questions even after I left the company for three months. I got tired of it and finally told them I could no longer assist because I had my own priorities.
A few weeks back I actually hired another engineer that also worked at that prior company we both worked at. He too was tired of all the bickering, politics, and fallout from the board of directors and the ceo's. In any event, I hired him and he too is now getting contacted with more of their questions.
Is there anything I can do to simply tell them to bug off? We have our own priorities and it is their problem now not ours!
employer-relations
asked 6 hours ago
JonHJonH
1,0732920
Short and sweet of it, I used to work as a manager/supervisor at a prior company that had us build various applications for them. I was there close to twenty years! In any event last year the company started struggling and things took a dive (upper management bickering, stock holders upset with the company, vision of company was no longer valid, competitors eating us alive, etc). One of my senior software engineers left prior to my departure and I eventually left as well.
I was able to quickly find a new home and a great place to work. Initially the old place kept asking me questions (I had to keep my phone number due to personal reasons) that were work related. It got to the point where each day they were asking 1-2 questions even after I left the company for three months. I got tired of it and finally told them I could no longer assist because I had my own priorities.
A few weeks back I actually hired another engineer that also worked at that prior company we both worked at. He too was tired of all the bickering, politics, and fallout from the board of directors and the ceo's. In any event, I hired him and he too is now getting contacted with more of their questions.
Is there anything I can do to simply tell them to bug off? We have our own priorities and it is their problem now not ours!
employer-relations
employer-relations
asked 6 hours ago
JonHJonH
1,0732920
asked 6 hours ago
JonHJonH
1,0732920
asked 6 hours ago
JonHJonH
1,0732920
asked 6 hours ago
JonHJonH
1,0732920
asked 6 hours ago
JonHJonH
1,0732920
1,0732920
30
Easy: stop answering their calls. If you inadvertently answer the phone and realized it's them, hang up. You've trained them to keep calling you by answering their questions for three months!
– dwizum
6 hours ago
2
Change your phone number. Get a new phone. Stop taking their calls. Tell them to stop calling you. All of these would be effective.
– joeqwerty
5 hours ago
1
You answered you own question. It is their problem now not yours. So you just ignore them—it's not your problem, like you said.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
2
Offer to consult for them, at an hourly rate that you can't say no to.
– zundi
1 hour ago
1
Do they call from the same phone number (like a business number) or are the individual engineers calling? Modern mobiles allow you to block numbers, and is far easier than changing your own number.
– Tas
1 hour ago
add a comment |
30
Easy: stop answering their calls. If you inadvertently answer the phone and realized it's them, hang up. You've trained them to keep calling you by answering their questions for three months!
– dwizum
6 hours ago
2
Change your phone number. Get a new phone. Stop taking their calls. Tell them to stop calling you. All of these would be effective.
– joeqwerty
5 hours ago
1
You answered you own question. It is their problem now not yours. So you just ignore them—it's not your problem, like you said.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
2
Offer to consult for them, at an hourly rate that you can't say no to.
– zundi
1 hour ago
1
Do they call from the same phone number (like a business number) or are the individual engineers calling? Modern mobiles allow you to block numbers, and is far easier than changing your own number.
– Tas
1 hour ago
30
30
Easy: stop answering their calls. If you inadvertently answer the phone and realized it's them, hang up. You've trained them to keep calling you by answering their questions for three months!
– dwizum
6 hours ago
Easy: stop answering their calls. If you inadvertently answer the phone and realized it's them, hang up. You've trained them to keep calling you by answering their questions for three months!
– dwizum
6 hours ago
2
2
Change your phone number. Get a new phone. Stop taking their calls. Tell them to stop calling you. All of these would be effective.
– joeqwerty
5 hours ago
Change your phone number. Get a new phone. Stop taking their calls. Tell them to stop calling you. All of these would be effective.
– joeqwerty
5 hours ago
1
1
You answered you own question. It is their problem now not yours. So you just ignore them—it's not your problem, like you said.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
You answered you own question. It is their problem now not yours. So you just ignore them—it's not your problem, like you said.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
2
2
Offer to consult for them, at an hourly rate that you can't say no to.
– zundi
1 hour ago
Offer to consult for them, at an hourly rate that you can't say no to.
– zundi
1 hour ago
1
1
Do they call from the same phone number (like a business number) or are the individual engineers calling? Modern mobiles allow you to block numbers, and is far easier than changing your own number.
– Tas
1 hour ago
Do they call from the same phone number (like a business number) or are the individual engineers calling? Modern mobiles allow you to block numbers, and is far easier than changing your own number.
– Tas
1 hour ago
add a comment |
8 Answers
8
active
oldest
votes
Is there anything I can do to simply tell them to bug off?
Just stop answering their questions.
Nothing says "bug off" quite like not giving answers to repeated questions.
You've trained them to continue to rely on you for help. This is your fault. Time to un-train them.
answered 6 hours ago
Joe StrazzereJoe Strazzere
252k1267291039
add a comment |
The most effective way is to tell them you charge X per hour for answering questions, and they need to give you an address where to send invoices.
Having to explain your bill will stop most people from asking questions.
answered 6 hours ago
gnasher729gnasher729
89.9k40159283
Doesn't solve the problem if they agree to pay X.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
23
@BittermanAndy Choose X such that it's high enough that you're willing to deal with them for that much.
– Acccumulation
5 hours ago
6
@BittermanAndy: smithsonianmag.com/history/… (Making chalk mark on generator $1. Knowing where to make mark $9,999.)
– Denis de Bernardy
5 hours ago
I disagree. While this may be a good idea, I don't think it's THE most effective way to get them to stop. The most effective way is to ignore them.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
@only_pro - No, the most effective way would be to scream obscenities down the phone at them.
– Richard
2 hours ago
|
show 3 more comments
Your options are (multiple choice):
Tell them to stop calling
Ignore the calls
Block their numbers
Offer to consult for an exorbitant rate
Inform them you're going to request a no-contact order, if they find
ways to go around your blocks or continue after you tell them to stop
callingActually request a no-contact order
answered 6 hours ago
HavegoodaHavegooda
3014
New contributor
Havegooda is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
6
Personally I'd put "exorbitant rate" as number one. That establishes your position and tends to shut people down when you are asking 4x the going rate (and as a day rate - none of this by the question/hour stuff)
– Peter M
6 hours ago
@PeterM - The reason I didn't do that initially was because OP asked how to get them to stop. Offering to consult leaves the door open a crack. I only included it because I thought the same as you and hey...who doesn't like money?
– Havegooda
5 hours ago
You can't make people do anything they don't want to do, but if the rate is high enough then they will decide for themselves not to continue with the calls. But yeah the risk is there that you will get the gig - and stupid money is great!
– Peter M
5 hours ago
1
Depending where you are (or, more precisely, on your employment contract - but what is common in an employment contract varies by region and industry), consulting may not be legal.
– Martin Bonner
2 hours ago
1
If you really don't want to be involved with them, be careful with the exorbitant rate option. Sometimes it's easy to think that the money would be worth it, then they accept your high rate and cause you stress and it's not worth it after all. Still, it's definitely an option worth considering in some cases.
– rooby
2 hours ago
add a comment |
I've been on the other end of this, taking over for someone who left after building or implementing most of the systems I still use to this day.
For the first few weeks, I was emailing or messaging him constantly. HE did a good job of NOT getting back to me instantly. He was NOT on-call. It gave me time to flail and learn and try to become self-sufficient, and I did slowly wean myself from his support. He also used the exorbitant consultant rate for actual projects we threw his way, until I had enough experience and knowledge built up that we no longer needed him for even that much.
So, having been on the other side of the coin, I can say this: unless you left very clear instructions and processes and manuals, and basically made your leaving seamless, it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so.
Obviously, situations vary, and your mileage may vary. If their requests are overly burdensome or aggressive, then just not answering (or maybe waiting a week/month and finally responding with "did you guys ever figure this out?" (but ONLY if you actually want to take it on, since they very likely did NOT figure this out! LOL!), just to keep the lines open just in case.)
answered 3 hours ago
Dustin KreidlerDustin Kreidler
1314
New contributor
Dustin Kreidler is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
I think the key words there are "exorbitant consultant rate." Nobody should be getting free over-the-phone support once you've left.
– Matthew Barber
1 hour ago
"it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so" - or even answer the requests. Them struggling does not equal OP does free work.
– Robert Grant
1 hour ago
add a comment |
What I haven't seen anyone address is that you say while YOU have stopped taking the calls they're contacting your subordinate. He needs to show tough love with them and tell them to stop calling. You need to make it clear to him that your expectation is that he not work for other companies while on the clock with you -- strongly encourage him to get tough.
answered 6 hours ago
KeithKeith
2,1232415
add a comment |
Most of the times, nothing beats the simplicity.
Refuse to help, just tell them you're busy. Say,
I'd like you to help, but I got work to do. (Yes, your work, which gets you paid).
If this calls keep coming, stop taking calls.
At some point of time, you have to learn to say "no". The sooner, the better.
answered 6 hours ago
Sourav GhoshSourav Ghosh
7,82843656
3
It would be more effective to say outright "No, I can't help". Firstly, it's actually saying the word "no", which (as you say) is needed. Secondly, giving reasons why the OP can't help encourages his former employer to try and find solutions to those reasons, e.g. offering to pay, which is not the desired outcome. Just say "no", nothing more.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
add a comment |
Consider what your time is worth to you if you would work as a consultant for them.
For most people, it's a matter of price - if the pay you for example 3000 $ a day for answering questions, you probably wouldn't mind too much (and that's not ludicrous- we pay that for some consultants). Find your sweet spot, add a bit, and seriously offer them to get in a contractual relationship as 'consultant'.
This could end with you having a well paying job, or with them stopping to bother you - both should be solutions you'd be happy with.
answered 1 hour ago
AganjuAganju
1,660411
add a comment |
The other answers talk about different ways to essentially either tell them "no" or to threaten them directly either with billing or no-contact orders.
I think the simplest way is to just stop answering their questions. By answering their questions in the past you've essentially implied to them that its okay to bug you with questions because you've been helping them out for all this time.
Stop responding to their calls/texts/messages/whatever. If you ignore them and the volume of contact increases or does not go away- then it turns into harassment and you will have to consider either blocking them or taking further actions to prevent them from bothering you during work.
answered 6 hours ago
chevybowchevybow
1513
add a comment |
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8 Answers
8
active
oldest
votes
8 Answers
8
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
Is there anything I can do to simply tell them to bug off?
Just stop answering their questions.
Nothing says "bug off" quite like not giving answers to repeated questions.
You've trained them to continue to rely on you for help. This is your fault. Time to un-train them.
answered 6 hours ago
Joe StrazzereJoe Strazzere
252k1267291039
add a comment |
Is there anything I can do to simply tell them to bug off?
Just stop answering their questions.
Nothing says "bug off" quite like not giving answers to repeated questions.
You've trained them to continue to rely on you for help. This is your fault. Time to un-train them.
answered 6 hours ago
Joe StrazzereJoe Strazzere
252k1267291039
add a comment |
Is there anything I can do to simply tell them to bug off?
Just stop answering their questions.
Nothing says "bug off" quite like not giving answers to repeated questions.
You've trained them to continue to rely on you for help. This is your fault. Time to un-train them.
answered 6 hours ago
Joe StrazzereJoe Strazzere
252k1267291039
Is there anything I can do to simply tell them to bug off?
Just stop answering their questions.
Nothing says "bug off" quite like not giving answers to repeated questions.
You've trained them to continue to rely on you for help. This is your fault. Time to un-train them.
answered 6 hours ago
Joe StrazzereJoe Strazzere
252k1267291039
answered 6 hours ago
Joe StrazzereJoe Strazzere
252k1267291039
answered 6 hours ago
Joe StrazzereJoe Strazzere
252k1267291039
answered 6 hours ago
Joe StrazzereJoe Strazzere
252k1267291039
252k1267291039
add a comment |
add a comment |
The most effective way is to tell them you charge X per hour for answering questions, and they need to give you an address where to send invoices.
Having to explain your bill will stop most people from asking questions.
answered 6 hours ago
gnasher729gnasher729
89.9k40159283
Doesn't solve the problem if they agree to pay X.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
23
@BittermanAndy Choose X such that it's high enough that you're willing to deal with them for that much.
– Acccumulation
5 hours ago
6
@BittermanAndy: smithsonianmag.com/history/… (Making chalk mark on generator $1. Knowing where to make mark $9,999.)
– Denis de Bernardy
5 hours ago
I disagree. While this may be a good idea, I don't think it's THE most effective way to get them to stop. The most effective way is to ignore them.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
@only_pro - No, the most effective way would be to scream obscenities down the phone at them.
– Richard
2 hours ago
|
show 3 more comments
The most effective way is to tell them you charge X per hour for answering questions, and they need to give you an address where to send invoices.
Having to explain your bill will stop most people from asking questions.
answered 6 hours ago
gnasher729gnasher729
89.9k40159283
Doesn't solve the problem if they agree to pay X.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
23
@BittermanAndy Choose X such that it's high enough that you're willing to deal with them for that much.
– Acccumulation
5 hours ago
6
@BittermanAndy: smithsonianmag.com/history/… (Making chalk mark on generator $1. Knowing where to make mark $9,999.)
– Denis de Bernardy
5 hours ago
I disagree. While this may be a good idea, I don't think it's THE most effective way to get them to stop. The most effective way is to ignore them.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
@only_pro - No, the most effective way would be to scream obscenities down the phone at them.
– Richard
2 hours ago
|
show 3 more comments
The most effective way is to tell them you charge X per hour for answering questions, and they need to give you an address where to send invoices.
Having to explain your bill will stop most people from asking questions.
answered 6 hours ago
gnasher729gnasher729
89.9k40159283
The most effective way is to tell them you charge X per hour for answering questions, and they need to give you an address where to send invoices.
Having to explain your bill will stop most people from asking questions.
answered 6 hours ago
gnasher729gnasher729
89.9k40159283
answered 6 hours ago
gnasher729gnasher729
89.9k40159283
answered 6 hours ago
gnasher729gnasher729
89.9k40159283
answered 6 hours ago
gnasher729gnasher729
89.9k40159283
89.9k40159283
Doesn't solve the problem if they agree to pay X.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
23
@BittermanAndy Choose X such that it's high enough that you're willing to deal with them for that much.
– Acccumulation
5 hours ago
6
@BittermanAndy: smithsonianmag.com/history/… (Making chalk mark on generator $1. Knowing where to make mark $9,999.)
– Denis de Bernardy
5 hours ago
I disagree. While this may be a good idea, I don't think it's THE most effective way to get them to stop. The most effective way is to ignore them.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
@only_pro - No, the most effective way would be to scream obscenities down the phone at them.
– Richard
2 hours ago
|
show 3 more comments
Doesn't solve the problem if they agree to pay X.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
23
@BittermanAndy Choose X such that it's high enough that you're willing to deal with them for that much.
– Acccumulation
5 hours ago
6
@BittermanAndy: smithsonianmag.com/history/… (Making chalk mark on generator $1. Knowing where to make mark $9,999.)
– Denis de Bernardy
5 hours ago
I disagree. While this may be a good idea, I don't think it's THE most effective way to get them to stop. The most effective way is to ignore them.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
@only_pro - No, the most effective way would be to scream obscenities down the phone at them.
– Richard
2 hours ago
Doesn't solve the problem if they agree to pay X.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
Doesn't solve the problem if they agree to pay X.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
23
23
@BittermanAndy Choose X such that it's high enough that you're willing to deal with them for that much.
– Acccumulation
5 hours ago
@BittermanAndy Choose X such that it's high enough that you're willing to deal with them for that much.
– Acccumulation
5 hours ago
6
6
@BittermanAndy: smithsonianmag.com/history/… (Making chalk mark on generator $1. Knowing where to make mark $9,999.)
– Denis de Bernardy
5 hours ago
@BittermanAndy: smithsonianmag.com/history/… (Making chalk mark on generator $1. Knowing where to make mark $9,999.)
– Denis de Bernardy
5 hours ago
I disagree. While this may be a good idea, I don't think it's THE most effective way to get them to stop. The most effective way is to ignore them.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
I disagree. While this may be a good idea, I don't think it's THE most effective way to get them to stop. The most effective way is to ignore them.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
@only_pro - No, the most effective way would be to scream obscenities down the phone at them.
– Richard
2 hours ago
@only_pro - No, the most effective way would be to scream obscenities down the phone at them.
– Richard
2 hours ago
|
show 3 more comments
Your options are (multiple choice):
Tell them to stop calling
Ignore the calls
Block their numbers
Offer to consult for an exorbitant rate
Inform them you're going to request a no-contact order, if they find
ways to go around your blocks or continue after you tell them to stop
callingActually request a no-contact order
answered 6 hours ago
HavegoodaHavegooda
3014
New contributor
Havegooda is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
6
Personally I'd put "exorbitant rate" as number one. That establishes your position and tends to shut people down when you are asking 4x the going rate (and as a day rate - none of this by the question/hour stuff)
– Peter M
6 hours ago
@PeterM - The reason I didn't do that initially was because OP asked how to get them to stop. Offering to consult leaves the door open a crack. I only included it because I thought the same as you and hey...who doesn't like money?
– Havegooda
5 hours ago
You can't make people do anything they don't want to do, but if the rate is high enough then they will decide for themselves not to continue with the calls. But yeah the risk is there that you will get the gig - and stupid money is great!
– Peter M
5 hours ago
1
Depending where you are (or, more precisely, on your employment contract - but what is common in an employment contract varies by region and industry), consulting may not be legal.
– Martin Bonner
2 hours ago
1
If you really don't want to be involved with them, be careful with the exorbitant rate option. Sometimes it's easy to think that the money would be worth it, then they accept your high rate and cause you stress and it's not worth it after all. Still, it's definitely an option worth considering in some cases.
– rooby
2 hours ago
add a comment |
Your options are (multiple choice):
Tell them to stop calling
Ignore the calls
Block their numbers
Offer to consult for an exorbitant rate
Inform them you're going to request a no-contact order, if they find
ways to go around your blocks or continue after you tell them to stop
callingActually request a no-contact order
answered 6 hours ago
HavegoodaHavegooda
3014
New contributor
Havegooda is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
6
Personally I'd put "exorbitant rate" as number one. That establishes your position and tends to shut people down when you are asking 4x the going rate (and as a day rate - none of this by the question/hour stuff)
– Peter M
6 hours ago
@PeterM - The reason I didn't do that initially was because OP asked how to get them to stop. Offering to consult leaves the door open a crack. I only included it because I thought the same as you and hey...who doesn't like money?
– Havegooda
5 hours ago
You can't make people do anything they don't want to do, but if the rate is high enough then they will decide for themselves not to continue with the calls. But yeah the risk is there that you will get the gig - and stupid money is great!
– Peter M
5 hours ago
1
Depending where you are (or, more precisely, on your employment contract - but what is common in an employment contract varies by region and industry), consulting may not be legal.
– Martin Bonner
2 hours ago
1
If you really don't want to be involved with them, be careful with the exorbitant rate option. Sometimes it's easy to think that the money would be worth it, then they accept your high rate and cause you stress and it's not worth it after all. Still, it's definitely an option worth considering in some cases.
– rooby
2 hours ago
add a comment |
Your options are (multiple choice):
Tell them to stop calling
Ignore the calls
Block their numbers
Offer to consult for an exorbitant rate
Inform them you're going to request a no-contact order, if they find
ways to go around your blocks or continue after you tell them to stop
callingActually request a no-contact order
answered 6 hours ago
HavegoodaHavegooda
3014
New contributor
Havegooda is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
Your options are (multiple choice):
Tell them to stop calling
Ignore the calls
Block their numbers
Offer to consult for an exorbitant rate
Inform them you're going to request a no-contact order, if they find
ways to go around your blocks or continue after you tell them to stop
callingActually request a no-contact order
answered 6 hours ago
HavegoodaHavegooda
3014
New contributor
Havegooda is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
answered 6 hours ago
HavegoodaHavegooda
3014
New contributor
Havegooda is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
answered 6 hours ago
HavegoodaHavegooda
3014
answered 6 hours ago
HavegoodaHavegooda
3014
3014
New contributor
Havegooda is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
New contributor
Havegooda is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
Havegooda is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
6
Personally I'd put "exorbitant rate" as number one. That establishes your position and tends to shut people down when you are asking 4x the going rate (and as a day rate - none of this by the question/hour stuff)
– Peter M
6 hours ago
@PeterM - The reason I didn't do that initially was because OP asked how to get them to stop. Offering to consult leaves the door open a crack. I only included it because I thought the same as you and hey...who doesn't like money?
– Havegooda
5 hours ago
You can't make people do anything they don't want to do, but if the rate is high enough then they will decide for themselves not to continue with the calls. But yeah the risk is there that you will get the gig - and stupid money is great!
– Peter M
5 hours ago
1
Depending where you are (or, more precisely, on your employment contract - but what is common in an employment contract varies by region and industry), consulting may not be legal.
– Martin Bonner
2 hours ago
1
If you really don't want to be involved with them, be careful with the exorbitant rate option. Sometimes it's easy to think that the money would be worth it, then they accept your high rate and cause you stress and it's not worth it after all. Still, it's definitely an option worth considering in some cases.
– rooby
2 hours ago
add a comment |
6
Personally I'd put "exorbitant rate" as number one. That establishes your position and tends to shut people down when you are asking 4x the going rate (and as a day rate - none of this by the question/hour stuff)
– Peter M
6 hours ago
@PeterM - The reason I didn't do that initially was because OP asked how to get them to stop. Offering to consult leaves the door open a crack. I only included it because I thought the same as you and hey...who doesn't like money?
– Havegooda
5 hours ago
You can't make people do anything they don't want to do, but if the rate is high enough then they will decide for themselves not to continue with the calls. But yeah the risk is there that you will get the gig - and stupid money is great!
– Peter M
5 hours ago
1
Depending where you are (or, more precisely, on your employment contract - but what is common in an employment contract varies by region and industry), consulting may not be legal.
– Martin Bonner
2 hours ago
1
If you really don't want to be involved with them, be careful with the exorbitant rate option. Sometimes it's easy to think that the money would be worth it, then they accept your high rate and cause you stress and it's not worth it after all. Still, it's definitely an option worth considering in some cases.
– rooby
2 hours ago
6
6
Personally I'd put "exorbitant rate" as number one. That establishes your position and tends to shut people down when you are asking 4x the going rate (and as a day rate - none of this by the question/hour stuff)
– Peter M
6 hours ago
Personally I'd put "exorbitant rate" as number one. That establishes your position and tends to shut people down when you are asking 4x the going rate (and as a day rate - none of this by the question/hour stuff)
– Peter M
6 hours ago
@PeterM - The reason I didn't do that initially was because OP asked how to get them to stop. Offering to consult leaves the door open a crack. I only included it because I thought the same as you and hey...who doesn't like money?
– Havegooda
5 hours ago
@PeterM - The reason I didn't do that initially was because OP asked how to get them to stop. Offering to consult leaves the door open a crack. I only included it because I thought the same as you and hey...who doesn't like money?
– Havegooda
5 hours ago
You can't make people do anything they don't want to do, but if the rate is high enough then they will decide for themselves not to continue with the calls. But yeah the risk is there that you will get the gig - and stupid money is great!
– Peter M
5 hours ago
You can't make people do anything they don't want to do, but if the rate is high enough then they will decide for themselves not to continue with the calls. But yeah the risk is there that you will get the gig - and stupid money is great!
– Peter M
5 hours ago
1
1
Depending where you are (or, more precisely, on your employment contract - but what is common in an employment contract varies by region and industry), consulting may not be legal.
– Martin Bonner
2 hours ago
Depending where you are (or, more precisely, on your employment contract - but what is common in an employment contract varies by region and industry), consulting may not be legal.
– Martin Bonner
2 hours ago
1
1
If you really don't want to be involved with them, be careful with the exorbitant rate option. Sometimes it's easy to think that the money would be worth it, then they accept your high rate and cause you stress and it's not worth it after all. Still, it's definitely an option worth considering in some cases.
– rooby
2 hours ago
If you really don't want to be involved with them, be careful with the exorbitant rate option. Sometimes it's easy to think that the money would be worth it, then they accept your high rate and cause you stress and it's not worth it after all. Still, it's definitely an option worth considering in some cases.
– rooby
2 hours ago
add a comment |
I've been on the other end of this, taking over for someone who left after building or implementing most of the systems I still use to this day.
For the first few weeks, I was emailing or messaging him constantly. HE did a good job of NOT getting back to me instantly. He was NOT on-call. It gave me time to flail and learn and try to become self-sufficient, and I did slowly wean myself from his support. He also used the exorbitant consultant rate for actual projects we threw his way, until I had enough experience and knowledge built up that we no longer needed him for even that much.
So, having been on the other side of the coin, I can say this: unless you left very clear instructions and processes and manuals, and basically made your leaving seamless, it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so.
Obviously, situations vary, and your mileage may vary. If their requests are overly burdensome or aggressive, then just not answering (or maybe waiting a week/month and finally responding with "did you guys ever figure this out?" (but ONLY if you actually want to take it on, since they very likely did NOT figure this out! LOL!), just to keep the lines open just in case.)
answered 3 hours ago
Dustin KreidlerDustin Kreidler
1314
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I think the key words there are "exorbitant consultant rate." Nobody should be getting free over-the-phone support once you've left.
– Matthew Barber
1 hour ago
"it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so" - or even answer the requests. Them struggling does not equal OP does free work.
– Robert Grant
1 hour ago
add a comment |
I've been on the other end of this, taking over for someone who left after building or implementing most of the systems I still use to this day.
For the first few weeks, I was emailing or messaging him constantly. HE did a good job of NOT getting back to me instantly. He was NOT on-call. It gave me time to flail and learn and try to become self-sufficient, and I did slowly wean myself from his support. He also used the exorbitant consultant rate for actual projects we threw his way, until I had enough experience and knowledge built up that we no longer needed him for even that much.
So, having been on the other side of the coin, I can say this: unless you left very clear instructions and processes and manuals, and basically made your leaving seamless, it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so.
Obviously, situations vary, and your mileage may vary. If their requests are overly burdensome or aggressive, then just not answering (or maybe waiting a week/month and finally responding with "did you guys ever figure this out?" (but ONLY if you actually want to take it on, since they very likely did NOT figure this out! LOL!), just to keep the lines open just in case.)
answered 3 hours ago
Dustin KreidlerDustin Kreidler
1314
New contributor
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I think the key words there are "exorbitant consultant rate." Nobody should be getting free over-the-phone support once you've left.
– Matthew Barber
1 hour ago
"it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so" - or even answer the requests. Them struggling does not equal OP does free work.
– Robert Grant
1 hour ago
add a comment |
I've been on the other end of this, taking over for someone who left after building or implementing most of the systems I still use to this day.
For the first few weeks, I was emailing or messaging him constantly. HE did a good job of NOT getting back to me instantly. He was NOT on-call. It gave me time to flail and learn and try to become self-sufficient, and I did slowly wean myself from his support. He also used the exorbitant consultant rate for actual projects we threw his way, until I had enough experience and knowledge built up that we no longer needed him for even that much.
So, having been on the other side of the coin, I can say this: unless you left very clear instructions and processes and manuals, and basically made your leaving seamless, it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so.
Obviously, situations vary, and your mileage may vary. If their requests are overly burdensome or aggressive, then just not answering (or maybe waiting a week/month and finally responding with "did you guys ever figure this out?" (but ONLY if you actually want to take it on, since they very likely did NOT figure this out! LOL!), just to keep the lines open just in case.)
answered 3 hours ago
Dustin KreidlerDustin Kreidler
1314
New contributor
Dustin Kreidler is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
I've been on the other end of this, taking over for someone who left after building or implementing most of the systems I still use to this day.
For the first few weeks, I was emailing or messaging him constantly. HE did a good job of NOT getting back to me instantly. He was NOT on-call. It gave me time to flail and learn and try to become self-sufficient, and I did slowly wean myself from his support. He also used the exorbitant consultant rate for actual projects we threw his way, until I had enough experience and knowledge built up that we no longer needed him for even that much.
So, having been on the other side of the coin, I can say this: unless you left very clear instructions and processes and manuals, and basically made your leaving seamless, it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so.
Obviously, situations vary, and your mileage may vary. If their requests are overly burdensome or aggressive, then just not answering (or maybe waiting a week/month and finally responding with "did you guys ever figure this out?" (but ONLY if you actually want to take it on, since they very likely did NOT figure this out! LOL!), just to keep the lines open just in case.)
answered 3 hours ago
Dustin KreidlerDustin Kreidler
1314
New contributor
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Check out our Code of Conduct.
answered 3 hours ago
Dustin KreidlerDustin Kreidler
1314
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answered 3 hours ago
Dustin KreidlerDustin Kreidler
1314
answered 3 hours ago
Dustin KreidlerDustin Kreidler
1314
1314
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Dustin Kreidler is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
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New contributor
Dustin Kreidler is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
Dustin Kreidler is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
I think the key words there are "exorbitant consultant rate." Nobody should be getting free over-the-phone support once you've left.
– Matthew Barber
1 hour ago
"it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so" - or even answer the requests. Them struggling does not equal OP does free work.
– Robert Grant
1 hour ago
add a comment |
I think the key words there are "exorbitant consultant rate." Nobody should be getting free over-the-phone support once you've left.
– Matthew Barber
1 hour ago
"it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so" - or even answer the requests. Them struggling does not equal OP does free work.
– Robert Grant
1 hour ago
I think the key words there are "exorbitant consultant rate." Nobody should be getting free over-the-phone support once you've left.
– Matthew Barber
1 hour ago
I think the key words there are "exorbitant consultant rate." Nobody should be getting free over-the-phone support once you've left.
– Matthew Barber
1 hour ago
"it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so" - or even answer the requests. Them struggling does not equal OP does free work.
– Robert Grant
1 hour ago
"it's not necessarily fair to assume that they aren't genuinely struggling without you. Even so, that in no way leaves you in the position of needing to prioritize their requests, especially if they're not paying you to do so" - or even answer the requests. Them struggling does not equal OP does free work.
– Robert Grant
1 hour ago
add a comment |
What I haven't seen anyone address is that you say while YOU have stopped taking the calls they're contacting your subordinate. He needs to show tough love with them and tell them to stop calling. You need to make it clear to him that your expectation is that he not work for other companies while on the clock with you -- strongly encourage him to get tough.
answered 6 hours ago
KeithKeith
2,1232415
add a comment |
What I haven't seen anyone address is that you say while YOU have stopped taking the calls they're contacting your subordinate. He needs to show tough love with them and tell them to stop calling. You need to make it clear to him that your expectation is that he not work for other companies while on the clock with you -- strongly encourage him to get tough.
answered 6 hours ago
KeithKeith
2,1232415
add a comment |
What I haven't seen anyone address is that you say while YOU have stopped taking the calls they're contacting your subordinate. He needs to show tough love with them and tell them to stop calling. You need to make it clear to him that your expectation is that he not work for other companies while on the clock with you -- strongly encourage him to get tough.
answered 6 hours ago
KeithKeith
2,1232415
What I haven't seen anyone address is that you say while YOU have stopped taking the calls they're contacting your subordinate. He needs to show tough love with them and tell them to stop calling. You need to make it clear to him that your expectation is that he not work for other companies while on the clock with you -- strongly encourage him to get tough.
answered 6 hours ago
KeithKeith
2,1232415
answered 6 hours ago
KeithKeith
2,1232415
answered 6 hours ago
KeithKeith
2,1232415
answered 6 hours ago
KeithKeith
2,1232415
2,1232415
add a comment |
add a comment |
Most of the times, nothing beats the simplicity.
Refuse to help, just tell them you're busy. Say,
I'd like you to help, but I got work to do. (Yes, your work, which gets you paid).
If this calls keep coming, stop taking calls.
At some point of time, you have to learn to say "no". The sooner, the better.
answered 6 hours ago
Sourav GhoshSourav Ghosh
7,82843656
3
It would be more effective to say outright "No, I can't help". Firstly, it's actually saying the word "no", which (as you say) is needed. Secondly, giving reasons why the OP can't help encourages his former employer to try and find solutions to those reasons, e.g. offering to pay, which is not the desired outcome. Just say "no", nothing more.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
add a comment |
Most of the times, nothing beats the simplicity.
Refuse to help, just tell them you're busy. Say,
I'd like you to help, but I got work to do. (Yes, your work, which gets you paid).
If this calls keep coming, stop taking calls.
At some point of time, you have to learn to say "no". The sooner, the better.
answered 6 hours ago
Sourav GhoshSourav Ghosh
7,82843656
3
It would be more effective to say outright "No, I can't help". Firstly, it's actually saying the word "no", which (as you say) is needed. Secondly, giving reasons why the OP can't help encourages his former employer to try and find solutions to those reasons, e.g. offering to pay, which is not the desired outcome. Just say "no", nothing more.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
add a comment |
Most of the times, nothing beats the simplicity.
Refuse to help, just tell them you're busy. Say,
I'd like you to help, but I got work to do. (Yes, your work, which gets you paid).
If this calls keep coming, stop taking calls.
At some point of time, you have to learn to say "no". The sooner, the better.
answered 6 hours ago
Sourav GhoshSourav Ghosh
7,82843656
Most of the times, nothing beats the simplicity.
Refuse to help, just tell them you're busy. Say,
I'd like you to help, but I got work to do. (Yes, your work, which gets you paid).
If this calls keep coming, stop taking calls.
At some point of time, you have to learn to say "no". The sooner, the better.
answered 6 hours ago
Sourav GhoshSourav Ghosh
7,82843656
edited 6 hours ago
answered 6 hours ago
Sourav GhoshSourav Ghosh
7,82843656
answered 6 hours ago
Sourav GhoshSourav Ghosh
7,82843656
answered 6 hours ago
Sourav GhoshSourav Ghosh
7,82843656
7,82843656
3
It would be more effective to say outright "No, I can't help". Firstly, it's actually saying the word "no", which (as you say) is needed. Secondly, giving reasons why the OP can't help encourages his former employer to try and find solutions to those reasons, e.g. offering to pay, which is not the desired outcome. Just say "no", nothing more.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
add a comment |
3
It would be more effective to say outright "No, I can't help". Firstly, it's actually saying the word "no", which (as you say) is needed. Secondly, giving reasons why the OP can't help encourages his former employer to try and find solutions to those reasons, e.g. offering to pay, which is not the desired outcome. Just say "no", nothing more.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
3
3
It would be more effective to say outright "No, I can't help". Firstly, it's actually saying the word "no", which (as you say) is needed. Secondly, giving reasons why the OP can't help encourages his former employer to try and find solutions to those reasons, e.g. offering to pay, which is not the desired outcome. Just say "no", nothing more.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
It would be more effective to say outright "No, I can't help". Firstly, it's actually saying the word "no", which (as you say) is needed. Secondly, giving reasons why the OP can't help encourages his former employer to try and find solutions to those reasons, e.g. offering to pay, which is not the desired outcome. Just say "no", nothing more.
– BittermanAndy
6 hours ago
add a comment |
Consider what your time is worth to you if you would work as a consultant for them.
For most people, it's a matter of price - if the pay you for example 3000 $ a day for answering questions, you probably wouldn't mind too much (and that's not ludicrous- we pay that for some consultants). Find your sweet spot, add a bit, and seriously offer them to get in a contractual relationship as 'consultant'.
This could end with you having a well paying job, or with them stopping to bother you - both should be solutions you'd be happy with.
answered 1 hour ago
AganjuAganju
1,660411
add a comment |
Consider what your time is worth to you if you would work as a consultant for them.
For most people, it's a matter of price - if the pay you for example 3000 $ a day for answering questions, you probably wouldn't mind too much (and that's not ludicrous- we pay that for some consultants). Find your sweet spot, add a bit, and seriously offer them to get in a contractual relationship as 'consultant'.
This could end with you having a well paying job, or with them stopping to bother you - both should be solutions you'd be happy with.
answered 1 hour ago
AganjuAganju
1,660411
add a comment |
Consider what your time is worth to you if you would work as a consultant for them.
For most people, it's a matter of price - if the pay you for example 3000 $ a day for answering questions, you probably wouldn't mind too much (and that's not ludicrous- we pay that for some consultants). Find your sweet spot, add a bit, and seriously offer them to get in a contractual relationship as 'consultant'.
This could end with you having a well paying job, or with them stopping to bother you - both should be solutions you'd be happy with.
answered 1 hour ago
AganjuAganju
1,660411
Consider what your time is worth to you if you would work as a consultant for them.
For most people, it's a matter of price - if the pay you for example 3000 $ a day for answering questions, you probably wouldn't mind too much (and that's not ludicrous- we pay that for some consultants). Find your sweet spot, add a bit, and seriously offer them to get in a contractual relationship as 'consultant'.
This could end with you having a well paying job, or with them stopping to bother you - both should be solutions you'd be happy with.
answered 1 hour ago
AganjuAganju
1,660411
answered 1 hour ago
AganjuAganju
1,660411
answered 1 hour ago
AganjuAganju
1,660411
answered 1 hour ago
AganjuAganju
1,660411
1,660411
add a comment |
add a comment |
The other answers talk about different ways to essentially either tell them "no" or to threaten them directly either with billing or no-contact orders.
I think the simplest way is to just stop answering their questions. By answering their questions in the past you've essentially implied to them that its okay to bug you with questions because you've been helping them out for all this time.
Stop responding to their calls/texts/messages/whatever. If you ignore them and the volume of contact increases or does not go away- then it turns into harassment and you will have to consider either blocking them or taking further actions to prevent them from bothering you during work.
answered 6 hours ago
chevybowchevybow
1513
add a comment |
The other answers talk about different ways to essentially either tell them "no" or to threaten them directly either with billing or no-contact orders.
I think the simplest way is to just stop answering their questions. By answering their questions in the past you've essentially implied to them that its okay to bug you with questions because you've been helping them out for all this time.
Stop responding to their calls/texts/messages/whatever. If you ignore them and the volume of contact increases or does not go away- then it turns into harassment and you will have to consider either blocking them or taking further actions to prevent them from bothering you during work.
answered 6 hours ago
chevybowchevybow
1513
add a comment |
The other answers talk about different ways to essentially either tell them "no" or to threaten them directly either with billing or no-contact orders.
I think the simplest way is to just stop answering their questions. By answering their questions in the past you've essentially implied to them that its okay to bug you with questions because you've been helping them out for all this time.
Stop responding to their calls/texts/messages/whatever. If you ignore them and the volume of contact increases or does not go away- then it turns into harassment and you will have to consider either blocking them or taking further actions to prevent them from bothering you during work.
answered 6 hours ago
chevybowchevybow
1513
The other answers talk about different ways to essentially either tell them "no" or to threaten them directly either with billing or no-contact orders.
I think the simplest way is to just stop answering their questions. By answering their questions in the past you've essentially implied to them that its okay to bug you with questions because you've been helping them out for all this time.
Stop responding to their calls/texts/messages/whatever. If you ignore them and the volume of contact increases or does not go away- then it turns into harassment and you will have to consider either blocking them or taking further actions to prevent them from bothering you during work.
answered 6 hours ago
chevybowchevybow
1513
answered 6 hours ago
chevybowchevybow
1513
answered 6 hours ago
chevybowchevybow
1513
answered 6 hours ago
chevybowchevybow
1513
1513
add a comment |
add a comment |
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30
Easy: stop answering their calls. If you inadvertently answer the phone and realized it's them, hang up. You've trained them to keep calling you by answering their questions for three months!
– dwizum
6 hours ago
2
Change your phone number. Get a new phone. Stop taking their calls. Tell them to stop calling you. All of these would be effective.
– joeqwerty
5 hours ago
1
You answered you own question. It is their problem now not yours. So you just ignore them—it's not your problem, like you said.
– only_pro
3 hours ago
2
Offer to consult for them, at an hourly rate that you can't say no to.
– zundi
1 hour ago
1
Do they call from the same phone number (like a business number) or are the individual engineers calling? Modern mobiles allow you to block numbers, and is far easier than changing your own number.
– Tas
1 hour ago