A software engineer in Bengaluru recently quit their job after expressing emotional distress during a video call with a manager, leading to a public discussion on workplace toxicity. The engineer reportedly cried on the G-Meet link when questioning project instructions and seeking clarity, citing an unpleasant and humiliating response with their manager.
The young software engineer decided to leave his job—not because he wasn’t performing well, but because the work environment had become unbearable.
The story came to light through a LinkedIn post shared by product management advisor Shravan Tickoo, who described the situation as more than just a toxic workplace, describing it "trauma."
Read full Linkedin post here
The post revealed the emotional toll the job took on the engineer. “I cried during a Google Meet call because I simply asked for clarity on a project,” it read.
There had been no clear instructions and when he asked questions for understanding things better, the only message he received was: “Figure it out.”
He wasn’t guided or supported—instead, he was publicly humiliated.
“We’ve stopped hoping for appreciation,” the engineer added. “Now, we just hope we’re not shamed in front of others.”
According to the engineer, the manager often called at odd hours, dismissed concerns, and shifted blame freely. When the engineer finally resigned, hoping to move on and find peace, his manager reportedly told him: “Good luck finding another job. Let’s see how long you last there.”
Shravan Tickoo summed it up, “This isn’t just toxic. This is trauma.”
Comments
Netizens reacted to the workplace toxicity.
"This post hits hard, Shravan. It’s heartbreaking to see how leadership, or the lack thereof, can deeply impact someone’s confidence and mental health", read a comment.
"Ugh, this hit hard. I’ve seen how bad management can drain even the most passionate people. It’s not just about quitting a job…it’s about reclaiming your sanity", added another.
