On Reddit, a fresher shared a painful experience with their reporting manager that struck a chord with many readers. Having joined their organization in January, they had maintained a spotless record, no unplanned leaves, no extended breaks, and strong performance since day one.

But when life took a difficult turn, their dedication was met with insensitivity. The employee lost their grandmother just days earlier and was now coping with the hospitalization of their premature niece, admitted to the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) for observation. After explaining the situation, the manager’s response was chillingly indifferent: “If there is any possibility to come tomorrow then pls try for it.”

Why Empathy in Leadership Matters

This Reddit post highlights a bigger problem in today’s workplaces, a lack of empathy from managers and its impact on employee mental health. Workplace stress is a major cause of burnout, depression, and lower productivity, according to the World Health Organization. Leaders who fail to respond with compassion risk damaging not only their employees’ well-being but also the company’s culture.

Great managers recognize that employees are human beings first, professionals second. Showing empathy during moments of crisis doesn’t weaken an organization, it strengthens loyalty and trust.

Toxic Work Culture Hurts Everyone

An employee shared on Reddit that they were ready to leave their organization and seek other opportunities. This response isn’t surprising; studies show that 76% of employees leave because of poor management, rather than dissatisfaction with the work itself. Replacing employees can be expensive. It can cost as much as one-third of an employee’s yearly salary.

This widely shared story highlights more than just a single instance of bad management, it serves as a wake-up call. Organizations need to invest in leadership training that emphasizes empathy and mental health awareness. Creating a culture rooted in compassion keeps employees engaged and helps prevent costly turnover.

Lessons for Managers and Workplaces

No employee should have to choose between supporting their family in a medical emergency and keeping their job. As this viral Reddit story shows, when managers fail to show basic humanity, they don’t just lose an employee, they lose trust, credibility, and long-term growth.

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