The study analyzes intensification and individualization in the core of "work modernization". Both are seen as processes that cause workers suffering and pain. In "modern" organizations, work has constantly been assessed by a single aspect: performance and economic profitability. When it happens within service relations, even within public service - it is the meaning of work that is affected. Supported by an empiric research involving travel packages and tickets salespersons from a large transport company, "breaking" of professions was investigated as a bullying at work strategy, which deteriorates wage earners' individual and collective defenses. The investigation found these sales professionals have increasingly been feeling they are losing control of their work, at significant cost to their mental health.
services; subjective precariousness; management practices; deskilling; suffering