Boss asks employees to fund co-worker's expensive farewell gift, sparking intense debate

Corporate employees expect backing from their senior colleagues in times of need. However, what if people assuming superior roles in a company, instead of extending help, turn their backs on a desperate co-worker? A boss was similarly called out on social media following his bizarre request, asking a junior employee for money. Outraged by the act, the popular internet personality Ben Askins—who goes by @ben.askins on TikTok—advised the online community to never fall for such “ridiculous” demands.

In a widely circulating video, Askins read out the heated exchange between an anonymous boss and employee. The senior, described as the “worst ever,” asked his junior co-worker to contribute to the leaving present for another colleague, Josh, who had been with the company for three long years. “Can you send me the 50 quid today?” the superior’s WhatsApp chat was revealed, adding that he wanted to purchase by the end of the day.

The hefty contribution prompted the employee from Australia to turn back and ask why the present was decided to be “so expensive” in the first place. “Bloody hell, money is a little tight right now, and to be asked to put in so much feels like a lot,” Askins pointed out. Notably, the boss chimed in to explain Josh’s contributions to leading the company and that it was a nice gesture to show appreciation. Furthermore, the corporate expert added his own take on the situation, finding it unpleasant as he, and so many others, expect companies to pay for presents.

“Look, I don't mind leaving presents as a concept, right? What I really dislike is this sort of whipped-round approach where people just get pressured to put in loads of money,” the content creator said, justifying his criticism for two reasons: (a) because the most senior people get more money, exactly like in this situation, and (b) people might not have that cash. The expert, known for calling out toxic bosses, advocated for businesses to step in during such situations and take responsibility by setting a separate budget. Following this, Askins went on to reveal the latter half of the exchange, where the employee expressed their discontent openly.

“I appreciate that, but he (Josh) makes so much more money than me. And for me to be asked to put in so much feels weird, especially as I never really worked with him,” the texted reply to his boss read. The manager responded by saying it was compulsory to pay. “It is not fair for me to ask some people and not others. Besides, it isn't that much, all things considered,” the boss shot back. Askins found the manager’s comment to be “callous” for the fact that the amount might simply not be much for him, but for others, it could be too much. 

Meanwhile, the employee ultimately agreed to the boss, agreeing to pay. “The fact that they (the manager) make them feel guilty about it and not acknowledge how much this is for some people is really poor,” the entrepreneur, part of Forbes’ prestigious 30-under-30, concluded. Among the variety of reactions, @mamastacks3 remarked, “Employees should never be asked to gift up the food chain! They make way more money than the people lower on the totem pole.” “I remember being pregnant at work and paying £20 towards a baby bundle for a co-worker when she had her baby. When I had mine, I didn’t even get one,” @gizmotimtasha shared. “I was asked to contribute to a really expensive gift for our boss who had just cut my hours. I have never said no so fast in my life,” @myhusbandmademedoit07 added.

You can follow Ben Askins (@ben.askins) on TikTok for company and job-related content.