It’s not a great time to be without work.
Hiring in the United States is at the lowest it’s been since 2009. Not only that, but some studies have indicated that the country is currently losing jobs.
This means that many people with jobs, even ones with which they aren’t particularly pleased, are doing everything they can to keep them. Still, some people will inevitably find themselves fired. While this is occasionally understandable, often, the reasons why someone is let go leave the affected person scratching their head.
Such is the case for TikTok user Brandon (@branduhhhh). In a video with over 399,000 views, Brandon says he was removed from the office due to this one social behavior.
Why Was This Tech Worker Fired?
In his video, Brandon shows himself walking down a city street.
“Put a finger down if you were fired from your corporate job because you like to eat lunch alone instead of with your team,” he says. He then puts a finger down.
“Be social at work yall,” he writes in the caption.
In a comment, Brandon explains that he was “told by my manager everyone said they think I hate them but I asked a few of my coworkers and they all said they never heard that/ felt that way.”
Can You Really Be Fired For Not Being Social?
Almost every state in the United States has what’s called “At Will Employment.” This means that employers can fire workers for almost any reason, so long as they are not doing so on the basis of a legally protected class.
For example, one cannot be fired for being Black. However, a boss can let someone go because they believe they have a “bad attitude.”
Naturally, this leads to many accusations that employees are being fired for a protected reason, but employers are simply claiming they are firing them for another, unprotected reason. This is called “wrongful termination.” Employers found guilty of engaging in wrongful termination can experience serious consequences, such as substantial fines.
That said, these cases are also notoriously difficult to prove in court. The person making the claim has the burden of proof to show the employer acted illegally. And direct evidence of such behavior may be difficult to come by.
There Are Other Cases
Brandon is far from the only person who claims they were fired due to not participating in company activities.
For example, one user on Reddit alleged they were fired for “not socializing enough.” Another said they were fired for “not fostering any relationships” with their co-workers.
“I was getting all my tasks done, pitching new ideas, helping my team upon request,” recalled the former. “It was obvious they let me go because of the socializing ‘issue’ and because they thought I was too quiet or didn’t fit in.”
In cases like these, there is unfortunately little one can do besides look for new work.
@branduhhhh Be social at work yall #unemployed #blackincorporate #blackintech #corporatebaddie #layoffs
Commenters Say It’s Unfair
In the comments section, users shared in Brandon’s commiseration. Many noted that there could be a racial component to this action, even if the employer did not realize it.
“As black ppl we dont get to be quiet, shy, introverted or neurodiverse at the job. They feel entitled to our time & attention even off the clock on our break,” wrote a user. “I’m sorry friend.”
“I was told by my black director at a predominantly/majority white company, that I didn’t get my contract extended because I didn’t play the politics. She said at the next job, play the game and get involved by accepting invites to team outings, drinks, lunches/dinners,” noted another. “I barely like doing those things with my FRIENDS.”
“Do they know introverts exist??????” questioned a third.
BroBible reached out to Brandon via TikTok direct message and comment.