Government Employee Earns Salary Despite Obsolete Position Due to Severance Oversight

Who would have thought that complying with a company memo would lead to being paid without doing anything? This is exactly what a Redditor's friend experienced.

The original poster (OP) shared her friend's story on the Malicious Compliance subreddit. According to the friend, she and another coworker worked in a state office tracking plague cases among prairie dogs.

During the summer, they were busy trapping and testing, but come winter, their work ceased as prairie dogs hibernated. They informed their boss via email, who told them to stand by for reassignment.

With no new tasks forthcoming, they initially kept busy organizing, cleaning, and handling paperwork, but soon resorted to sleeping, doing schoolwork, and engaging in other personal activities during work hours.

As the next summer approached and prairie dogs became active again, they anticipated resuming their work. However, an email from a higher-up informed all employees that their department had been cut, without addressing their job status.

They continued to clock in, making sure to be seen by security and avoiding detection by other departments. Eventually, they ran into their boss, who was surprised to learn they were still working there.

The next day, they were officially let go via email. Due to their long tenure, they received severance packages and qualified for unemployment benefits, although they didn’t need to use them since they had anticipated the end of their "gravy train" and secured new jobs.

They managed to get paid for doing nothing for 19 months by following their boss's vague instructions.

The OP's friend was able to relax at work for 19 months.

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A friend told the OP how she maliciously complied with the vague company memo.

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Understanding Job Security and Employee Morale

Job security significantly impacts employee morale and overall job satisfaction. Research from the University of Toronto highlights that individuals who feel secure in their positions are more likely to exhibit higher levels of engagement and commitment. In this case, the government employee's experience illustrates how perceptions of job stability can lead to complex feelings about one's role and contributions. When job security is compromised, employees may experience heightened anxiety and disengagement, which can ultimately affect organizational outcomes.

The job was to track plague cases in prairie dog towns.

When there were no tasks left to do, the employees simply waited for their reassignments.

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They still pretended to work since they didn't want to be accused of theft.

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Moreover, the situation reflects the psychological impact of perceived inequity in the workplace. Individuals who remain in positions despite downsizing may grapple with guilt or imposter syndrome, questioning their worth and contributions. A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology indicates that feelings of unfairness can lead to increased stress and decreased job satisfaction. Organizations must recognize the emotional toll that job security issues can have on employees.

The employees took turns sleeping so that someone would be on the lookout.

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When the employees thought that work would finally resume, they received a memo stating that their department had been cut.

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Strategies for Supporting Employees During Organizational Change

To foster a supportive environment, employers should communicate transparently about changes that may impact job security. Providing resources for employees to address their concerns can alleviate anxiety and promote engagement. Research shows that organizations that prioritize open communication during transitions often see improved morale and satisfaction among employees. By creating a culture of transparency, companies can help employees navigate uncertainties with greater resilience.

The project was axed by the state fish and game department.

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The email didn't state anything about their job status.

So the employees would clock in and sleep at work.

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Additionally, offering career development opportunities can enhance feelings of security and belonging among employees. Studies indicate that organizations investing in employee growth and development experience lower turnover rates and higher employee satisfaction. By prioritizing employee well-being and growth, organizations can cultivate a more committed and engaged workforce, even during challenging times.

Nobody bothered to check on them to see if they were working.

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The boss finally realized the whole situation when the OP's friend informed her that they were still working in the department that had been cut.

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The employees of the department in question are not at fault. They were simply following what they were told.

It's all on the higher-ups for not being clear about the job status. The lack of communication and oversight led to a situation where employees were left in limbo, uncertain about their roles and responsibilities.

The employees were both let go with severance pay.

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The OP explains the malicious compliance further.

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She received responses from users, telling her that situations like this really happen.

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These redundant employees are still receiving their salaries despite their department being cut.

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The OP updates people on what exactly her friend and the other employee were doing.

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The friend edited Wikipedia pages and learned a new skill.

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The coworker conducted an experiment.

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Their Christmas activities.

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The coworker landed a great job.

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Apparently, the whole thing happened before the smartphone era.

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The OP's friend also landed a great job.

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Her friend is working for real now.

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The gist of it all.

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Stories from other Redditors started pouring in.

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Something similar happened at an airport.

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The government and big corporations lose track of employees; that's why this kind of situation happens.

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Psychological Analysis

This situation highlights the complex emotions surrounding job security in the workplace. When individuals feel their positions are at risk, it can lead to anxiety and disengagement. Employers must prioritize communication and support to help employees navigate these challenges effectively.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Understanding the impact of job security on employee morale is crucial for organizational success. Research indicates that transparency and investment in employee development can significantly enhance job satisfaction and commitment. By prioritizing communication and support, organizations can foster a more resilient workforce.