New Employee Quits After Day One, and Sends This Scathing Email to His Former Boss

When employers claim that "nobody wants to work anymore," that usually means that nobody wants to work for them, and their awful management.

By Daniel Bonfiglio

Published 6 months ago in Funny

When employers claim that "nobody wants to work anymore," that usually means that nobody wants to work for them, and their awful management.

But nobody has ever wanted to work for somebody less than one newly hired associate product designer. After just one day on the job, he decided he'd seen enough, and sent the following scathing resignation email, featuring professionalism, facts, and rage in equal parts.

I wouldn't want to be his manager. Then again, I don't abuse employees.

1
Hello,

I hope this message finds you well.

After reflecting on recent events that unfolded on my first day of work, I must convey that our professional alignment does not seem to match. Specifically, I find your approach toward work expectations and personal boundaries seriously concerning.

2
You have repeatedly made remarks about my activities outside of work hours, which I believe is highly inappropriate and unprofessional. What I choose to do in my personal time - whether it is exercising, spending time with family, sleeping, or READING BOOKS is my prerogative and should not be subject to criticism.

3
Ridiculing the concept of work-life balance and calling it a "fancy term" and "western-developed behavior" for someone of 24 years is dismissive, TOXIC, and uncalled for.
4
Moreover, your insistence on submitting work within 48 hours, outside of normal working hours, without compensation for overtime, coupled with demands to "burn the midnight oil" in a threatening manner is unreasonable, inhumane, and inconsiderate. I must remind you that the company LACKS any policy on overtime pay, even after I asked your HR about it, who reassured me that there would be no need for it, and everyone is expected to work within normal work hours, (45 hours a week). Expecting work without fair compensation undermines both legal standards and the respect that every employee deserves.

5
These remarks and expectations are especially concerning given the increasing national attention on toxic work culture, which has sparked important discussions about employee well-being and workplace ethics. It's disappointing to encounter such behavior in light of these developments.

Lastly, your behavior during our last interaction, particularly scolding me, was unacceptable. I will not tolerate being subjected to such treatment.
6
Given these points, I believe it would be best for you to find another person who is willing to meet your expectations in the manner you desire. I hope you understand my decision, as I prioritize both professionalism and respect in my work relationships.
7
If you believe that your conduct in these situations is defensible and humane, I welcome and challenge you to make any slack recordings of our conversations public. Let others judge the professionalism and appropriateness of both your expectations and behavior.