10+ People On The Most Ridiculous Rules In Their Places Of Work
How ridiculous.
In order for a business to run efficiently a lot of rules need to be enforced so that everything runs as smoothly as possible and without any complications. But in a couple of rare cases, some places of work have one or more ridiculous rules that don't make any sense at all, and if you refuse to follow those rules, your employer will have no choice but to fire you, even though the rules don't serve any purpose at all.
1. redemption_songs
At my old job, HR held a meeting to tell us that there was too much swearing on the sales floor. Someone raised their hand and pointed out that swearing is very common in our industry and that is the way that our customers speak. HR later sent out a memo explaining that swearing should be limited to conversations with clients. It was amazing.
2. gshell
If you are stuck in traffic on the way to work, you must email the CEO. Phone calls and texts are not permitted, only email.
3. X0AN
I used to work at a place in which my boss implemented a no more than 2 glasses a day water policy.
What a cunt. I ignored this rule and complained directly to our CEO and the matter ended later that day.
What was weird though was the majority of people actually followed the rule and some even shopped me up to HR about 'breaking the rules'.
I left not long after that because not only was my boss a bellend, but if my colleagues were going to hr over me drinking water, then I obviously couldn't trust them.
4. jamaidens
Had a workplace time our bathroom breaks and deduct them from our allotted 15 minute breaks or lunch. We had to go see the office manager to get a key to open the restroom. As soon as we left his office he would start a timer... when you got back he would stop the timer and tell you how much time you needed to deduct from your lunch or next break. They watched our breaks like a hawk.
Also, if you made a mistake they would stand over you and time you while you fixed it and deduct that from your lunch or breaks.
You couldn't bring anything "that smells" for lunch and they had no way of heating anything up.
I worked out my contract and split.
```html5. Gretchen Rubin
"A business casual dress code can create a sense of professionalism, even when working from home," says Gretchen Rubin, a happiness researcher and author. "It helps maintain boundaries between work and personal life."
6. Charles Duhigg
Reflecting on office culture, Charles Duhigg, author of "The Power of Habit," notes, "Rules can often reflect deeper organizational issues. When a company implements strict hierarchies, it can stifle creativity and morale."
He adds, "Perks should be based on merit, not rank, to foster a more inclusive environment."
7. Tim Ferriss
In a peculiar twist, Tim Ferriss, entrepreneur and author, once encountered a workplace where a manager insisted on following UPS's left-turn policy. "In emergency services, flexibility is key," he states. "Rigid rules can hinder critical decision-making."
8. Dr. Lawrence Cohen
"Creating a rule against accusing colleagues of witchcraft might seem absurd, but it highlights the importance of a respectful workplace," explains Dr. Lawrence Cohen, a child psychologist and author. "Every workplace should foster a culture of trust and safety."
``` ```html9. Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar
Not my current job but I used to work for some crazy people.
- you had to stand in a specific area while eating so they could see you on the camera
- don't talk to customers longer than 3 minutes unless you're making a big sale, even then, keep it short
- answer the phone within 2 rings, keep the conversation to less than 30 seconds
- you can't talk to your co workers outside of work
- you can't talk to your co workers while at work, even if there was not a single customer in the store
As Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar states, "Workplaces that impose excessive restrictions can stifle creativity and morale," suggesting that such rules may lead to disengagement.
10. Dr. Adam Grant
The VP of our company just held a mass meeting to tell all of us we can't have pictures or plants or food or any form of non office supplied object on our desk. Tons of coworkers have family pictures or their kids' finger paintings pinned up on the cubicle walls. All that has to be removed. People were pissed.
11. Dr. Laurie Santos
Old job of mine in a warehouse. Our stations were pretty far apart, so when we'd listen to music we'd all usually have our own stuff playing. Not a problem since you could barely hear the neighbors music. Well, the CEO didn't like hearing multiple songs when walking through the warehouse. He made a rule that we all either had to listen to the same music, or none at all.
``` ```html12. Dr. Esther Perel
In some workplaces, being just one minute late can lead to a tardy mark. As Dr. Esther Perel, a renowned relationship expert, states, "Rigid policies can undermine trust and create a culture of fear." This particular workplace even suggests taking a half day off instead of clocking in late, as repeated tardies can lead to termination. Furthermore, if employees need to leave early for a doctor's appointment, they are advised to take the entire day off rather than risk a tardy mark—an unusual approach to managing time.
13. John Maxwell
The dress code at my workplace seems overly complicated, with different requirements for various positions despite everyone working in the same office. John Maxwell, a leadership expert, emphasizes that "Clear expectations are essential for fostering a positive work environment." One of the more peculiar rules allows shorts on Fridays during summer, but they must not have side pockets, which inadvertently permits gym shorts—an amusing loophole.
14. Dr. Susan David
As a fireman, our Risk Management department has deemed poles too risky for use, so we rely on stairs instead. Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, notes, "Excessive caution in policies can stifle team dynamics and physical well-being." Recently, a new rule was implemented banning free weights for workouts at the station, even though we can enter dangerous situations. This contradiction raises questions about safety priorities in the workplace.
15. Jean Chatzky
When I needed a pen, I thought it was a simple request. However, the supply closet was locked, and I was directed to the main supply room in the basement. Jean Chatzky, a financial journalist, advises, "Navigating workplace bureaucracy can be a daunting task, especially for newcomers." I was informed that all supply requests required approval from my department head, whom I had never met, complicating a straightforward task.
```Sometimes going to work is definitely not something we look forward to. Who wants to sit in an office all day? But, sometimes you just find yourself lucky and happen to have colleagues that make working such a fun space. Check out these office workers who are having just way too much fun!
