A social media post by human resources professional Priyavarshini M has ignited a discussion on workplace ethics after she recounted an unusual resignation incident that took place just minutes after an employee’s salary was paid.
Writing on LinkedIn, Priyavarshini described how the staff member, who had been with the company for only a month, received their salary at 10.00 am—and at 10.05 am, sent an email announcing their resignation.
In her post, she posed a series of pointed questions: “If you never intended to stay, why accept the job? Why go through the hiring process? Why remain silent during onboarding or training?”
She argued that resigning so soon after payday reflected “a lack of intent, maturity, and accountability,” warning that such behaviour sends “the wrong message” to colleagues and employers alike.
The post rapidly gained traction, triggering a broad debate on professional ethics, employee rights, and corporate responsibilities.
While some supported her stance, others sharply criticised the decision to share the episode publicly. One commenter remarked: “The person is not wrong. But being in HR, you should not post such matters on social media. It clearly shows your immaturity, please.”
Another respondent offered a metaphor-laden defence of the employee’s actions: “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, he must have realised there is a lot of darkness ahead; the sky wouldn’t have been visible, nor the rumble of clouds heard—so he took this decision. To maintain a long-term relationship, trust on both sides is essential. In today’s time, if anyone sees a little darkness, they will walk away.”
Others took a more nuanced view, pointing to common workplace realities. One comment read: “I see the point, but employees may leave quickly due to unmet expectations, poor culture, or a mismatch in role—often realised only after joining. While sudden exits aren’t ideal, they can protect one’s mental health or career. Employers, too, make abrupt decisions like layoffs. Professional ethics should work both ways, with honesty and respect on both sides.”
"Maybe these 5 minutes are enough to realise the difference between 'CTC' and 'in-hand' salary," a user quipped.
"What's wrong with that? It's the choice of each individual just like when company does lay off. Therefore it is imperative to have a good working environment, pay package that will ensure staff members want to work and perform in the organisation. Management's roles comes with heavy responsibility as its can either make or break the business. So the question is really for management to analyse if this trend is persistent in the organisation and if this is one off perhaps the individual is not the right fit," another user remarked.
A user noted, "Sometimes kids do turn the table and show HR the mirror."
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