A Reddit post titled “Got fired because of a sticker” has gone viral, sparking debate over workplace culture and the consequences of humor on the job. The now-former employee claimed they were fired after placing a joke sticker in the staff washroom that read:
“Employees must stop crying before returning to work.”
Shared as part of an April Fools’ prank, the sticker was reportedly placed above a mirror with the knowledge of the HR department, who even allegedly advised the user on where to put it.
“I went into work the next day and noticed all my things weren’t where I left them so I knew immediately I was getting suspended for it,” the employee wrote. They added that they immediately took responsibility, explaining it was meant to be harmless and apologised to management.
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However, instead of a warning or discussion, the employee was told, “We have to let you go,” despite HR not being present during the firing. The employee had been with the company for 10 months and claimed they had no previous write-ups or disciplinary action.
The employee fired from the job without being warned. [Photo: Reddit]
The former employee also revealed that the firing decision may have been influenced by a prior disagreement with their boss regarding the use of toonies (two-dollar coins). “My heart is broken because a lot of the staff believed in me as a leader,” they shared. “My ex-boss cried too after everything was said… it’s like he expected a fight from me. Or to beg for my job. But that’s not my character.”
The post quickly gained traction on Reddit, with hundreds of users sympathising with the employee. Many questioned the fairness of the firing and suggested seeking help from a labour board. Others pointed out the difficulty in proving HR’s involvement without documentation.
The incident has reignited discussions on workplace morale, leadership, and how far humor can go in professional environments—especially when employees try to balance stress with levity.
