In an era where employees frequently share workplace experiences online, a recent Reddit post has ignited a heated debate about corporate ethics and employee treatment. A traveling supervisor for a cable and construction company alleged that after resigning and submitting a two-week notice, the company refused to pay for their return flight, leaving them stranded at a remote work location.
The employee, who had been with the firm for three years, shared their journey from a smaller company to a corporate giant that later acquired it. According to their account, the acquisition led to mass layoffs and reduced support for remaining staff. Despite adhering to professional norms by providing advance notice, the company’s decision to not cover the flight home left them furious and regretful about ever joining the organization.
“I thought giving my two weeks would make a nice bridge in case they ever changed policies, ever became better, but after this, I hope the company goes belly up,” wrote the employee in their post.
The supervisor also issued a warning to others, advising against giving notice in such environments. “DO NOT PUT YOUR TWO WEEKS IN. These corporations don’t care about you,” they emphasized, highlighting the pitfalls of loyalty in exploitative workplaces.
The post has garnered significant attention, amassing over 3.9k upvotes and sparking widespread discussions. Many users empathized with the employee, while others debated the decision to quit mid-assignment.
One commenter advised legal action:
“They’ve decided since you gave two weeks’ notice that they’re not paying for your return voyage? You’re still an employee for two more weeks. Call an employment lawyer and HR. Tell HR you’re gonna sue them if they don’t bring you home.”
Another urged caution for future resignations:
“Never give notice until you’re back home. When your two weeks end, you’re no longer an employee. Companies don’t purchase plane tickets for former employees.”
Some users, however, took a more nuanced view, cautioning against burning bridges. One commenter wrote:
“I would never NOT give notice before leaving—not for the company’s sake, but to maintain my professional reputation. You never know when you might cross paths with former colleagues.”
This incident has sparked broader questions about corporate responsibility and the ethical treatment of employees, particularly those working in remote or challenging environments.