Am I being exploited by this client?

I recently got hired by a direct client for the first time. I’m already working as a VA under an agency, but the agency takes a big cut, so I thought getting a direct client would be better.

The new job is B2B calls for awards nominations. I started at $6 per hour, 30 hours a week. The target was to call 200 leads per day and deliver 2 leads per hour.

Week 1: I got 19 leads. He said it wasn’t enough, so he reduced my rate to $4 per hour.

Week 2: I got 20 leads. Still “not enough,” so he reduced my rate again to $2.50 per hour, saying he’ll only bring it back to $4 once my numbers go up.

This week, I delivered 22 leads, but he still hasn’t increased my rate.

For context, I also have a full-time job from 9 PM–6 AM, and then I work for him from 6 AM–2 PM. I’m exhausted, and honestly, $2.50 per hour does not feel worth it for the workload and the pressure.

I’m also the breadwinner, and with Christmas coming up, I’ve been trying to hold on to this job even if it’s draining me.

I just want to hear your honest perspective: Am I being taken advantage of? Because right now, it really feels like it. 🥲