IT Worker Goes Silent in Meetings After Boss’s Write-Up Threat

OP, an IT team member, was threatened with a write-up by their boss for providing information and clarifying responsibilities in vendor calls.

After the warning, OP went silent in meetings, only speaking when addressed, causing project delays as the boss relied on them for information.

This could lead to major fallout, but OP left for a better job. Was OP wrong for this silent protest? Let’s dive into the details and see what the online community thinks.

This story is a subtle rebellion against poor management. Did OP go too far?

This story highlights a toxic workplace where poor management stifles employee contributions, hindering efficiency.

The boss’s threat reflects insecurity and weak leadership, as noted by management expert Ken Blanchard: “Effective leaders encourage employee input, not suppress it for personal gain” (The One Minute Manager).

OP’s malicious compliance cleverly exposed the boss’s incompetence but risked escalation if they had stayed. Leaving for a better role was wise, though OP could consider reporting the boss’s behavior to HR to protect others.

This case underscores the need for respectful, effective management in workplaces.

Here’s the input from the Reddit crowd:

Reddit supports OP, calling the boss’s behavior unreasonable and urging documentation to protect against blame. Many share similar experiences with poor managers and encourage leaving. Here’s a roundup of reactions.

Many advise documenting interactions.

Some share similar experiences.

A few urge action or leaving.

OP wasn’t wrong for going silent after their boss’s threat, exposing her incompetence through malicious compliance. Reddit backs OP, advising documentation and an exit, which OP achieved.

How do you handle poor management at work? Have you faced a similar situation? Share your stories!