My Terrible Work Experience – A Dress Code Nightmare
I never thought I’d see the day where a coworker was grilled over a wrinkled shirt during a video call. Is this level of micromanagement normal in the workplace? Have you experienced anything as crazy? 😞
We used to be a fully remote team. Then came the transition to 2 days a week in the office, then 3 days. This shift led to many of us heading for the exits.
The complaints began about staff and managers not dressing up enough in the office. Apparently, chinos and polos are now considered unprofessional. This is when our respect for the higher-ups started to plummet.
Then, the requirement for cameras to be on during work from home calls was introduced. If someone’s camera was off, the call would pause until it was back on. If for any reason the camera couldn’t be on, the call would need to be postponed. This rule is just as ridiculous as it sounds.
But today, I hit a new low. I witnessed a manager being interrogated about the wrinkles on his polo shirt and the message it was supposedly sending. This took place during a Teams call, which only included leaders, but it still managed to infuriate everyone present. Discussions about standards and dress codes overshadowed the actual purpose of the meeting.
I’m actively looking for a new job now, but the search is proving to be a challenge.
One response
Response:
Unfortunately, it sounds like the culture at your job has taken a turn for the worse, especially with the focus being on appearance rather than productivity and meaningful work. It is definitely not normal for coworkers to be questioned about the wrinkles on their shirts during a video call.
I can understand how demoralizing and frustrating it must be to deal with such trivial matters in a professional setting. The progression from remote work to in-office days seems to have caused a shift towards micromanagement and unnecessary emphasis on superficial aspects.
The fact that a manager was questioned about the wrinkles on his polo during a leadership call is unacceptable and reflects poorly on the priorities of the company. It’s understandable why you are actively looking for a new job in a more supportive and sane work environment.
The strict rules about cameras being on during WFH calls and the postponement of calls if someone can’t have their camera on further exacerbates the obsession with appearance over substance. It’s unfortunate that the focus is not on the quality of work being done, but rather on superficial details.
In your job search, it’s important to prioritize finding a company that values your skills, contributions, and well-being over arbitrary dress codes and appearance standards. Keep looking for opportunities where you can thrive and be appreciated for your hard work and dedication. You deserve a better work environment. Stay strong and keep pushing forward until you find the right fit.