'My HR caught me cheating on her': Employee found speaking to other companies on Day 1 at new job

The employee said he was taking a call from another company’s HR in the office lobby, when he was spotted by his current HR partner. (AI-generated image)

A viral Reddit post has triggered a wave of reactions after a new employee revealed that his HR confronted him on his first day for speaking to another company’s recruiter. The post, titled “My HR caught me cheating on her,” has been widely shared for its unusual tone and the awkwardness of the situation.

According to the employee, he had just joined the new organization and praised the HR for ensuring a smooth onboarding experience. “We connected very well and she gave me a proper onboarding,” he wrote. During salary negotiations, he had promised the HR that he would not back out of joining.

But, while taking a call from another company’s HR in the office lobby, he was spotted by his current HR. “She looked at me as if she caught me doing some tax fraud or something,” the post read.

‘You promised me you wouldn’t leave’

The employee said the HR later called him into her cabin and asked if he was uncomfortable in the organisation. When he denied any issues, she pressed further: “Were you talking to some other company’s HR?” After a moment of silence, he admitted the truth. Her response surprised him: “But you promised me that you wouldn’t leave.”

Describing the exchange, the employee wrote: “That whole conversation sounded like a breakup that’s about to happen.” He assured her it was “just a call,” and after some convincing, she let him go—but not without leaving him feeling guilty. “Since then, she’s been looking at me like I have broken her trust, and I don't know why, but I feel guilty too," he added.

Netizens react: ‘Tell her it’s not you, it’s me’

The post sparked humorous and practical advice on Reddit. One user quipped: “Tell the HR, it’s not you, it’s me. You deserve better.” Another warned: “Don’t take such calls when people are around.” Others pointed out the professional implications: “It will affect her performance if you leave.”