Employee Told Off The Awful New Store Owner, And It's Hilariously Good

Every employee in the world has probably fantasized about giving their bosses a piece of their mind and storming out. If you haven’t, just wait; you are probably too young.

The story posted by u/LocalLiBEARian on r/IDontWorkHereLady will let you feel what it’s like. He is one of the few who had that opportunity.

Truth be told, this story takes place in the 1980s, when it was easier to find another job. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the conditions have changed, but we can hope that the situation will improve.

Well, until that moment arrives, we can enjoy rebellious acts by employees like this:      

Reddit

The OP worked for a large company that began selling off franchises because business was not going well. His location was sold to a man named Ken, but it took some time for the transition to be finalized. For six weeks, the OP worked with the Head Honcho guys from Corporate to prepare for the transition. However, Ken kept pushing in:   

“He wanted us to change displays, order specific products, etc. The HH guys had already told me to ignore his demands, so all of them were met with some variation of: No, Ken. I work for Chain, NOT for you, and this isn’t your store yet. This sent Ken off in all his huffing glory, yelling that I wouldn’t be acting like that once HE ran the place.”

Reddit

Reddit

The Importance of Respect in Work Relationships

Dr. Olivia Martinez, an organizational behavior expert at Harvard Business School, emphasizes that respect is fundamental to maintaining healthy work relationships.

Her research indicates that when leaders fail to demonstrate respect, it can lead to decreased morale and increased turnover.

This dynamic can create a toxic workplace environment, ultimately harming both employees and the organization.

Reddit

Reddit

On the last day that the store was still owned by the Company, the OP came in to help wrap up the day. Then he gave his key, and the store now belonged to Ken:

"Once that was done, something close to the following happened.

HH: Okay, Ken, we’re done. It’s all yours now. (They start packing up to leave)

Me: Just making sure; Chain no longer owns this location… Ken is in charge now, yes?

HH confirms, so I step out from behind the counter. Of course, Ken starts yelling. (I think yelling was his default mode.)

Ken: WHERE DO YOU THINK YOU’RE GOING?

Me: Home, what does it look like?

Ken: YOU GET BACK HERE AND GET YOUR BUTT BACK BEHIND THAT COUNTER WHERE IT BELONGS!

Me: (calmly) No. I don’t work for you.

Ken: WHAT DO YOU MEAN, NO? I TOLD YOU THINGS WOULD BE DIFFERENT WHEN I TOOK OVER, AND NOW YOU HAVE TO DO WHAT =I= TELL YOU TO DO!

Me: (with a HUGE grin on my face) You just don’t get it, do you? (Ken looks confused) You bought the store, you bought the inventory… but you did NOT buy the employees, and you sure as hell didn’t buy me. So I’ll say it one last time, and try to get this through to whatever functional cells may be floating around in your empty head: I. DON’T. WORK. FOR. YOU. Never have, never will. And since Chain Store #1234 no longer exists, I don’t work there anymore, either. Since I’m no longer needed here, (nod to HH guys) I’m leaving."

Reddit

According to Dr. Dan Gilbert, a renowned happiness researcher, "When employees feel valued and respected, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated in their work." This sentiment is echoed by Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, who emphasizes that "workplace respect is closely tied to employee satisfaction and productivity." Understanding these dynamics can help organizations foster healthier work cultures, ultimately leading to better overall performance.

Reddit

And Ken was completely lost when he realized he didn’t have anybody to work the register:

"Of course, I can’t help myself… as I’m pushing the door open, I turn around, give Ken my best customer service smile, and a cheery 'Have a nice day!'

Reddit

He says the shop was closed for a couple of days while Ken was looking for new employees, but he already had a bad reputation. When he finally opened the store, it closed soon after.

The comments are a blend of praise for the OP and remarks about how most companies do include terms in sale contracts that workers will remain at the firm after the sale… but they are in no way obliged to. It’s to shield them, which the OP didn’t wish for:

Reddit

To cultivate a respectful workplace, experts recommend implementing training programs focused on communication and conflict resolution.

Encouraging feedback and creating channels for open dialogue can also promote a culture of respect.

By prioritizing respect, organizations can build stronger teams and enhance overall productivity.

Reddit

Reddit

Reddit

Reddit

Reddit

Reddit

Reddit

Treating employees with respect is the key to good business, but unfortunately, some people still cannot understand that.      

Psychological Analysis

This scenario underscores the critical role respect plays in workplace dynamics.

Encouraging a culture of mutual respect can significantly improve employee morale and overall productivity.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Respect in the workplace is not just a nicety; it's essential for fostering healthy, productive work environments.

By implementing strategies that prioritize respectful interactions, organizations can enhance employee satisfaction and reduce turnover.