The Unwritten Creed for Toxic Workplaces

Let’s call him Trevor. Trevor has worked for Company ABC for two years. And this is the unwritten creed he lives by:

I, Trevor, pledge unquestionable and unlimited loyalty to Company ABC for as long as I am here. I promise to be seen and not heard, to do and not say, to answer and never ask.

Last year, my mother was admitted to the ICU in critical condition. When I requested leave to be by her side, my line manager coldly asked, "Are you her doctor?" I said no. His response? "Then you can’t go." I understood—company goals come first.

That same year, I increased the company's revenue from 400 million to 500 million, working 100 hours per week despite my contract stipulating 48 hours. When I asked for a raise, I was told it would be "considered next year." The year came and went. When I followed up, I was informed the company was struggling. I kept quiet because, as always, my role is to do—not ask.

Last month, a client called complaining of a delay in his consignment. My line manager lectured me about how the gods have dealt with me by denying me a brain and in its place, put maggots. He reminded me that the company did me a huge favour by employing me, and he could fire me at the snap of his finger. I nodded in agreement because, after all, wasn’t I just another hopeless, formless, jobless street urchin looking for a job?

I promise to pick up calls during my off days. The company's success is my true calling, far outweighing any trivial matters like my family, health, or the faintest hint of personal leisure. After all, how can I relax in such an unforgiving economy under a totalitarian government?

When I was promoted to sales manager last year, I didn’t receive a salary increment. Nonetheless, I still poured my heart into reviving a failed product and reintroducing it to the market. The CEO brought in his two nephews as new hires whom I was tasked with supervising and training. I later discovered that they were earning twice my salary. When I raised this with HR, I was directed to my line manager, who dismissed me as greedy and demanding. He warned me to either stay in line or jump in the lake. Now, he sides with my juniors to disgrace my efforts and even insults me in front of clients. But I deserve it—I overstepped. As a matter of fact, I should be grateful that they are gracious enough to offer me a salary every month.

Recently, I developed migraines and ulcers that landed me in hospital. However, I requested the doctor to discharge me early so that I could resume work immediately. After all, my salary is too meager to afford a medical cover, and I discovered that my company doesn't remit my statutory deductions.

My line manager earns five times my salary yet he doesn't even know how to open a PDF document. But that’s not his fault—his job is to say; mine is to do.

I can't quit because my family depends on me. My mother, discharged from the ICU, requires medication and clinical visits. My wife is five months pregnant. My younger brother, suspended from high school for hitting a mosquito with a hammer, needs school fees. And my daughter in Grade 4 barely sees me because I work on weekends and holidays without overtime pay. I missed her singing recital for the umpteenth time. But the company needs me, and I need them. After all, they keep saying "We are a family".

Despite everything, I, Trevor, do solemnly swear to trade my last ounce of energy, my health, my dignity, and my family for the glory of Company ABC—because what else is life for?

Signed,

Trevor.

Disclaimer: This is a fictional story and not based on any specific individual or account shared with me. This article is inspired by workplace realities shared publicly by many professionals across the board. The aim is to spark thoughtful discussions about creating healthier work environments.

As an accountant who doubles up as a storyteller and filmmaker, I aim to tell stories that provoke thought and address the challenges in society.

Rashid Mutali What stands out to you most about Trevor's experience?