25 Employees Who Violated Workplace Rules and Should Have Been Fired but Somehow Got Away With It

Work can get monotonous pretty fast. It's exciting when you're still learning the ropes and getting to know the people you will be working with.

After some time, one day just blurs into the next unless you have exciting co-workers—colleagues who aren't so concerned about the employee handbook and workplace guidelines.

Working with them can be stressful, but you can always count on them to make things interesting. Admittedly, they sometimes take things too far.

Their workplace shenanigans affect everyone. Their once exasperating behavior turns into liabilities that can no longer be ignored.

Employees like these were the topic of an interesting Reddit post. A Redditor asked, "Have you ever witnessed something that should've gotten someone fired at work? If so, what happened?"

The query garnered a lot of attention, receiving nearly 2,000 unique responses about co-workers who got away with breaking the rules.

• Most anecdotes were controversial, but some should have been reported to the authorities and not just HR. They make notorious lunch thieves look tame in comparison.

Co-workers of this type are the permanent subject of water cooler gossip. Surely, they must know someone in upper management if the bosses are willing to look the other way.

The best and most popular answers are listed below. Anyone would long for a boring old desk job with colleagues like these.

1. He sure got down from that high horse really quick.

_clydebruckman

2. That's what they call teamwork.

SeveralAngryBears

3. It's bad for everyone when the wrong people get rewarded.

AdamR91

Understanding Workplace Rule Violations

Dr. Lisa Brown, an organizational psychologist at the University of Pennsylvania, explains that workplace rule violations often stem from a disconnect between employee values and company policies.

Research shows that when employees feel their values are misaligned with organizational culture, they may engage in rule-breaking behavior as a form of resistance.

This can indicate deeper issues within the company's work environment.

They have no incentive to be better.

AdamR91

So they just escalate until their actions finally catch up to them.

AdamR91

4. No one can say he wasn't managing lines.

MrAlf0nse, sterfri99

Behavioral studies suggest that perceived fairness in rule enforcement plays a crucial role in maintaining workplace order.

According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, employees are less likely to violate rules when they believe that enforcement is consistent and fair.

Conversely, inconsistent enforcement can breed resentment and lead to increased rule-breaking.

5. Did they enjoy the view?

TuPacSchwartz411

6. Was it a coincidence, or were they in on it?

BW_Bird

7. Nothing to worry about; 'tis but a scratch.

LyricalJerrycal

Creating a Culture of Accountability

To address workplace violations, organizations must cultivate a culture of accountability.

This includes clear communication of expectations and consequences for rule violations.

Establishing a transparent disciplinary process can help employees understand the importance of compliance.

8. Why would you use a work laptop for those kinds of searches?

johnwalkersbeard

The white noise machines worked a little too well.

johnwalkersbeard

9. Forget getting fired. How about a police report?

TheRadJellyfish

Additionally, involving employees in the creation of rules can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Research suggests that participatory rule-making can reduce instances of violations by aligning policies with employee values and fostering commitment.

This can enhance overall organizational cohesion.

10. I don't think that's what the customer meant when they asked for extra dressing.

RewardNew5810

11. There goes everyone's bonus.

amethyst_haired_emo

No wonder the customer couldn't believe the sale price!

amethyst_haired_emo

Restoring Trust After Violations

When violations occur, addressing them promptly and fairly is crucial for restoring trust within the team.

Open discussions about the impacts of rule violations can help promote understanding and healing.

Leaders should model accountability and transparency to reinforce these values within the organization.

12. This is the kind of boss who only promotes the employees who are willing to kiss her ass.

Prixm

13. In a building full of beds, he chose to sleep in a closet? If you're going to risk your employment, at least be comfortable.

[deleted]

14. Pretty sure that's sexual harassment.

PangolinIllustrious6

In conclusion, understanding the motivations behind rule violations can help organizations create a more harmonious work environment.

By fostering accountability and open communication, companies can reduce the likelihood of future violations and improve employee morale.

15. Oh, that's rough.

single-left-sock

16. Why wasn't she fired if she was responsible for losing the client?

iateacakeonce

17. That nurse should have been fired! The patient deserves praise.

SecretPersonality178

18. A menace to society.

i-piss-excellence32

Did no one think to file a complaint to someone, somewhere?

i-piss-excellence32

19. A terrible day to be literate.

scruntyboon

20. Don't hate the player.

Dano558

21. Do your co-workers have an album full of your sleeping face?

PD216ohio

22. Well, at least you know the airbags work.

EddieRando21

23. Offer them a colonoscopy.

thiccdiamonds

24. Why would you believe your own ears? If it happened, it was just a joke. You're just too sensitive.

Elleseebee928

25. Was he arrested?

gottabe_kd

All of these are probably fireable offenses at any other company. It's normal to make mistakes, but the anecdotes above aren't simple lapses.

It must be shocking to work with people like them. Bosses may ignore it, but employees like these are responsible for the fast turnover rate.

Psychological Analysis

This situation highlights the complexities of workplace dynamics and the need for clear communication regarding rules and expectations.

Recognizing the psychological factors at play can lead to more effective management strategies and a more cohesive workplace.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, workplace rule violations can reveal underlying issues within organizational culture.

By addressing these issues through accountability and clear communication, companies can foster a healthier work environment.