[Theodores]

Last time I was on paid pager duty there was a slim likelihood that there would be any chance of the 3 a.m. call. Therefore we had a strict rota as it would have been unfair if someone was getting all of the free cash. This only amounted to £300 a month due to everyone wanting to be on the rota, however, I am sure that paid for my Christmas by the end of the year.

Plus the minor incidents that did happen also turned out to be good team moments, everyone would hear that 'you fixed it'. Okay you did reboot-retry on that file server that wasn't responding and everything was fine five minutes later, but a lot of knowledge went into pressing that reboot button and, as far as manager types are concerned, you saved the day. To their non-technical minds that could be voodoo wizardry so they are pleased, feather in cap given.

I also believe that doing some out of hours emergency support is good for one's own education, you are able to think quickly on your feet as it is a heightened urgent situation at hand. Just being placed in this position helps you gain experience of this type of problem solving. Total focus on the task in hand is easily achievable, one is not thinking about lunch or going home and only half focused.

Once you have that experience then find a new job!

[shermanyo]

> Okay you did reboot-retry on that file server that wasn't responding and everything was fine five minutes later, but a lot of knowledge went into pressing that reboot button and, as far as manager types are concerned, you saved the day.

You likely understood the consequences of your action too (and if not, you just learned! :P )