Worker calls out boss for pushing unpaid time, his response sparks a viral debate

The dynamics between bosses and employees have evolved significantly, with clear boundaries becoming more of a norm. Workers today are less likely to comply with unreasonable demands, as shown in a viral Reddit post from u/heyyslat. The post features a text exchange from the user’s previous warehouse job, where his manager reminded him to punch in on time.

The manager’s message read:

“This message is to advise you about punching in late. Make sure you punch in on time every single day. I know you can do it!”

If you won't be paid for it, maybe don't do it? Reddit | u/heyyslat

A confusing reprimand

The employee, who considered himself punctual, was baffled by the text. Seeking clarification, he replied:

“Hey, I’m honestly just a bit confused because the shifts start at 7:30 and I’ve been punching in at 7:30 every day lately. Some days at the absolute worst, it’s 7:35 because of traffic, and no one seems to have an issue with it since it takes a couple of minutes for everyone to get sent to their trucks regardless.”

His response seemed reasonable to many, but his manager wasn't satisfied. Instead of addressing the concern, the boss responded with a new request:

“Try punching in at 7:25 tomorrow, that’s all I ask.”

"You want to grow in a company that micromanages like this?"

— u/radicale_reetroeier

This raised red flags among Redditors, who saw it as an attempt to pressure the worker into showing up early without additional pay.

The ultimate clapback

Not one to be pushed around, u/heyyslat responded with a simple but powerful question:

“Will the five minutes be paid?”

"Lol he shut up real quick when you asked him that."

— u/extendo_64

That one line resonated with thousands online. The manager’s silence after the question spoke volumes, and the comment section overwhelmingly sided with the employee.

The internet weighs in

The exchange ignited a heated discussion on workplace expectations and micromanagement. Many Reddit users pointed out how common it is for companies to pressure employees into unpaid extra time.

"Oldest routine… ‘get ready for work by clocking in early.’"

— u/CBguy1983

However, not everyone thought the manager was in the wrong. Some argued that punctuality is non-negotiable, regardless of minor delays. u/monkey_in_the_gloom defended the boss, writing:

“Manager asking a member of staff to be on time. He’s done nothing wrong. If you’re contracted to be somewhere at a certain time, then you need to be. If you repeatedly fail to do so it needs to be discussed. What about all the other staff that are there on time? Why should they bother if you're allowed to get away with it? It's a job, not a club. Get up earlier.”

That take didn’t sit well with many, as the comment was heavily downvoted.

The bigger picture

This viral exchange sheds light on a broader issue—employees being asked to work outside of their scheduled hours without proper compensation. Many workplaces rely on unspoken expectations that workers should arrive early or stay late without pay, despite labor laws that often require wages for every minute worked.

The overwhelming support for u/heyyslat proves that more employees are willing to push back against unpaid labor. And the best way to counter unreasonable demands? Simply ask: Will I be paid for it?