Is It Fair to Terminate an HR Executive Over an Introductory Email? Let's Discuss This Real Incident

*KINDLY READ IT AGAIN AS I ADDED COUPLE OF MORE THINGS.

Hi All,

A recent incident happened at one of the very big organizations of South India which we all must have heard of and that is Tata Coffee Limited, Bangalore. A Senior HR Executive(Generalist) was terminated verbally by the MD of the company just because of the introductory mail attached below. Not only was he terminated but was also made to hear some very unprofessional words.

The Introductory Mail is as below :Subject : New flavor in TCL.

Good Morning Team.This is V*****. I am a new flavor of your Tata Coffee now. Just hop on board with you guys. About me; I am a ‘Happy-go-Lucky' kind of a person. Happy because I am blessed with a good life and good heart with lots of love for food and Lucky because I am always surrounded by awesome people. Great enthu, positive go-getter attitude and strong determination sum up to personify ME. A sports loving freak who is totally mad of water sports. Did parasailing, water skeeing, Aqua diving, boat sailing and rock climbing in the past. A person who always keep the boredom a step aside. Basically I am from Delhi and belong to defance family (Dad was in Indian Navy) due to transferable job got opportunity to visit many coastal southern parts of India during my schooling. Came to Bangalore for my MBA course which helped me develop a great understanding about HR domain; prior to that did my Graduation (BSc-Phy) from Mumbai. Work wise having an experience of 2+ yrs and started my carrier with IT Service Industry (***** company) on HR Generalist role. Joined TCL as “Senior Executive-HR” in HR department.
So to sum it up I am a fun loving sporty person with around 2 + yrs exp. Just here to join you all and look forward for a happy, productive innings. Here with you guys.

"The person who is going through all this had to leave his ex-employer by buying back his notice period of 45 days, which costs a huge amount & then after working with Tata Coffee Limited for just 10 days was terminated with immediate effect. He was hired on 1 yr contract basis directly by TCL HR Head.

He is been terminated with immediate effect where MD of the company directly called him up in his cabin & verbally terminated him in the presence of VP and HR head. Reason being why he marked the mail to Sr people and the MD.

Trust me the short conversation which was happened in the MD's cabin was so much awful an unprofessional.

And best of all,There was no mail transaction at all from MD side or HR head.The best part is his reporting person was directly the HR HEAD and she also couldn`t help him just becoz MD was outr of his mind.

The Hr head was so overwhelmed with his performance and new ideas & strategies, that she is also trying to help him by referring him to his freinds.

MD is a senior person,but only he can`t be right and all other people be wrong. And if we HR`s are not secured at the job front then how can company expect us to perform well enough.

That poor chap is going through a sad time now.He has financial crisis,no job,and still MD uses words like "Shit"for him and his introductory mail.How can he play with the life of a person whom, not him but his HR head had employed.
Poor chap had to buy back his 45 days notice period with his ex-employer and now he has no job at the moment.
How can people play with the lives of such inncocent still hardworking youth.

Regards

Cirus

*************************

Hi Guys

I read all the replies and comments. Thanks for sharing your views and suggestions on the same. This is what has happened after shooting that introductory mail

The MD called this guy inside his cabin.

MD: "what kind of shit is this?"
Guy: "sir, its an introductory mail"
MD: Who the hell do you think you are and who gave you permission to send such kind of shit and that too to MD; what is this you wrote- you like water sports, parasailing. What you think any person can join & send a mail to Ratan Tata- hey! i have joined. Who cares that you joined or resigned?
Guy: I am sorry sir
MD: You better be! and i am going to terminate you for this!
Guy: Sir....
MD: you may leave now

This conversation happen in the presence of HR head & VP of TCL. They didn't utter a single word.

Later half HR head called him in his cabin & said, look dear i tried to pacify things to MD but,.... i think not the right discuss on this topic now with MD. Give me a weeks time and let me see what best i can do.... but dont keep much hope as its very difficult to change the MD's decision. Once he decided any thing than he stick on to it.
Any ways let me try with my known people if they are having any HR vaccancies. Also she asked; Will your company will take you back?

Irony is that; this guy buyback the notice period of 30 days as HR Head wants him to join ASAP becoz to involve him in one of the assignment.

Secondly, he received so many welcoming mail from all over the offices (including Sr Mgrs and Mgrs) Also after shooting the mail he was been introduced with all the office staff people face to face where every one (including Sr Mgrs) appreciated him for such kind of innovative way to introduce self.

In a short span of 2-3 days this guy proved himself and the recruitment drive he was working on was a great success for which the Dy HR praise him (but over the phone) and also after a week.

I agree with all the cite Hr'ians related to their comments, but I strongly feel that certainly termination was not the solution of this incident.

I have learnt the lesson in a very hard way;but my enthu. level and my creativity will always going to remain the same. People who know me will always find me smiling.

Like to thank my friend CIRUS who helped me to share the incident with you all.

From

The Guy who faced all this.

Hi,

I am sure a person like him will not be idle for long. And if the HR fraternity (Head HR of TCL and CiteHR friends) is helping him out, he will find a suitable position soon.

All I can say is that "He was fit for the company, BUT the company was not fit for him"

Rgds
JJ

I agree with you, Mr. JJ. I am sure he will find a good job soon. Wish him all the best.

I request all the HR fraternity to share their views on this incident and also to help this chap out. You can email any suitable HR openings to hrjobforme@hotmail.com.

Regards,
Cirus

Dear Cirus,

If it is only because this person has sent the mail to senior executives that he has been terminated, then by all means, it is unfair. At most, there should have been a censure and nothing else (although I still do not see why since it's only an introductory mail!).

A lot of companies have a policy of sending introductory emails for every new recruit, and there is usually a designated person and a format to do so. If TCL has none, and if it is against company policy to send such emails (again I see no reason why, but if it's the policy, then so be it), then he should have been made aware of it, but it certainly does not merit a termination.

Personally, if I am able to help this person out in any way, I would be glad to, so if you can forward his details to me, I might be able to do something. Again, this is purely on the premise that the incident has happened exactly as you have stated, and there are no other facts in this.

Thanks,
MM

Hi Friends,

I agree with Cirus and JJ. The act by the MD is very unprofessional, and he himself doesn't understand the meaning of professionalism, even after being in such a senior position. I believe this guy is full of enthusiasm and energy while floating off this introductory mail, and these energetic individuals are always an asset to the company with their innovative ideas and happy-go-lucky attitude.

If somehow the MD hasn't liked his way of introducing himself to the other members, he could have given him a piece of advice either directly or through his HR head. This issue isn't that big to terminate him, even if he is in a bad state of mind. Moreover, if the MD of such a company can make such decisions just because of his short temper, then this is going to be a major hindrance to the company's growth.

I wish all the best to this guy in getting a good job.

Cheers,
Tushar

Hi Cirrus,

As our friends mentioned in the earlier replies, the mistake is clearly on the MD. Here in our office, it is a must-rule that every new person has to send an introductory email to all senior people. I do not know what's wrong with that person to not read an email. I hope he will find the best place where he can execute whatever he likes.

All the very best to that guy...

The HR person is a fool for calling himself a new flavor of TCL, and the email is so childish and unprofessional. HR does not mean you can just write any email, especially one that resembles a poem written by a child. The MD and other senior personnel work tirelessly all day, putting in effort, and become irritated because this person wastes time writing such juvenile emails.

Please let me know if you need further assistance.

Hi Ravi,

First of all, thank you for reading the mail and taking the time to share your thoughts on the same.

I am not creating an issue of termination of a meagre HR Executive. This posting is an eye-opener for all the people that such incidents are happening in a big corporate like TATA Coffee Ltd, where the basic values, ethics, and code of conduct are very popular in the industry.

I am not in favor or against anyone, but what is wrong is wrong, and we should not downgrade ourselves and feel superior and happy just because it happened with one of the HR (though he was much junior and had mere close to 2 years of experience).

It seems that you had some bitter experience with HR people, but that doesn't mean that we should laugh or make such kind of comments if some sort of injustice is happening with someone.

Friends, again, I'll appeal to all HR fraternities. If they are encountering any job opening for HR Generalist or HR Executive in Bangalore, kindly inform Mr. Yadav about the same. You can email him at [IMG]https://www.citehr.com/misc.php?do=email_dev&email=aHJqb2Jmb3JtZU Bob3RtYWlsLmNvbQ==[/IMG].

Regards,

Cirus

Dear,

It is different to be casual after you understand the people around you and not before. If your boss is a serious person, it is important to understand and respect his or her seriousness. Protocols in companies have to be respected and maintained. Misbehaviors of this sort may land you in trouble. Even now, if you feel sorry, you can melt the boss's heart.

With Regards,
V. Sounder Rajan

E-mail: rajanassociateslawfirm@yahoo.com, rajanassociates@eth.net, rajanassociateslawfirm@gmail.com

It is always a good idea to find out what kind of working climate exists in a company when you are a new joiner. I do not think that the management can possibly give an exhaustive list of do's and don'ts. As professionals, we need to behave in a mature manner. Instead of shooting off that email, he could have checked to see if such a thing was acceptable.

Having said that, if I were his direct reporting manager, I would have quit in protest because the MD completely sidelined him and behaved like an autocrat.

Asha Varghese

Hi, it's highly unethical. Even if the MD receives any mail that is unwanted, he can ignore it and get along with work. He has a huge responsibility than poking his nose into such silly issues. He could have sent an "all the best" note to this guy, which would have made him very happy, or just ignored it. Some of the top officials think that they are so high and they need not talk to any junior-level people and think it's a disgrace to them. But they completely forget that the efforts of all junior-level employees contribute more to the development of the company as they get involved in clerical and physical jobs.

I read his mail, the introduction is very good, and I wish him all the best to get a good job. This company is unfortunate to have him with them, but I am sure he will find a fortunate company that will benefit from choosing him.

Regards, Bavani

In my opinion, sending an introductory email is certainly not the crime here. No doubt there seems to be lots of enthusiasm and energy in his email, but being a Senior HR Executive, his email lacks a professional touch and seems more like that of a college-going guy. He holds a position that should exhibit some maturity rather than being fun-loving and carefree. This is where the importance of summer training and industrial training comes into play – one needs to understand and learn.

There is always a protocol to be maintained. Therefore, before sending out the email, it is important to understand to whom it is addressed and sent, and accordingly, the content should be designed. This kind of email is certainly appropriate among friends and peers but not for the Managing Director and other senior management personnel.

Perhaps it was also too early for him to open up this way. Instead, he should have first tried to understand the culture of the organization and then, by creating a good rapport within the company, he could have initiated a culture change gradually and step by step if he felt the need in such a short period.

To my understanding, and as also known to me through some of my colleagues and friends in Tata Group Companies, it is a highly professional and values-based company. Probably, that is why the Managing Director should not have considered this kind of introductory email to potentially disrupt the existing culture of the company.

Indeed, terminating the candidate is too disproportionate and harsh an action concerning the email and not the right approach on the Managing Director's part. Even a warning at this stage and for this reason is not appropriate.

Had I been the Managing Director and not liked this kind of email, I would have called the HR Head and asked him to first praise the candidate for his enthusiasm and convey that the company expects the same level of enthusiasm in his professional conduct. Then, I would introduce him to the existing company culture, values, and protocols, and counsel him in a manner that preserves his enthusiasm while also respecting the company's values.

Members may have differing opinions.

I offer all my best wishes and good luck to him for finding a better job.

Parwez

Hi,

Is there a contact for this person? It seems like a good resource; I learned a lesson the hard way. If there is any way to contact this bloke, I might be able to help him out.

Thanks

Sanjay Pillai
Sr. Executive - Human Resources
Intertitle Inc. (Division of First American Corporation)
ITPL, Bangalore-46
Email: sjpillai@firstam.com

Hi,

In my opinion, this person hasn't done anything wrong by sending this kind of mail. After reading the mail, I just thought it's such an innovative way of introducing yourself to everyone and showing people that you are approachable. But one thing I guess created a problem was marking it to MD. Maybe the MD of TATA Coffee is a person of reserved school of thoughts. He didn't understand the motive of writing this mail. Still, he could have just called the HR head and explained the situation to him instead of firing the person.

This guy should ask for a written explanation for his termination.

Regards,
KT

Hi,

I have read all emails related to this topic. I am not in a position to pass any judgment on this issue, as till now we only know one side of the coin. Simply looking at the email, we can say the person who has written it is immature, and the person who has terminated on this ground only is a little more immature unless something else has also happened behind the curtain.

This issue could be handled in a much better way by both management and the person. Now, I can only say that your friend should remember that everything happens for good. Learn the appropriate lesson from the incident and move on.

Regards,

That guy should have given a chance for an explanation. The matter was not serious to the extent of termination. The MD may have some other reasons for his actions. I feel sorry for the HR guy.

I would really empathize with him, but somehow feel that being an official introduction letter, it could have been presented in a more professional language and in a subtle way about himself. Because while going through the content, I feel that he might be an outspoken and straightforward person, but that won't work out at all times. Human minds are very different and unpredictable, so he should have been a little more careful when writing the same officially.

Anyways, I wish him to get away soon from this small setback.

Regards,
Ajhan.

Dear Cirus,

I personally feel these types of issues might have two sides. So, the comment that MD's action is wrong is agreeable to all of us. But these should have gone into a detailed discussion between the two, and then only we can come to a conclusion. Because the email did not provide certain details like whether the terminated person is against policy, or if he has informed, or if he used unlawful words, etc. The email only gives details about the MD's action.

We can only offer a general view on this issue that for an introductory email like this, termination might be too harsh or wrong. But I can argue that if the contract clearly mentions that sending unnecessary emails, including fancy introductory letters, will have an adverse effect - then the action can be justified.

Hope someone will agree with me.

Thanks - N. Hari

Hi,

I would really empathize with him, but while going through the content, I feel that it could have been presented in a better language for an official intro letter. Moreover, he might be an outspoken and straightforward person, but it won't work out all the time. I feel he could have mentioned his personal traits in a subtle way. As we know, human minds are very different and unpredictable; these sad things tend to happen if certain things are not communicated according to the respective place, people, culture, and expectations.

Anyways, I wish him to get away soon from this small setback.

Regards,
Ajhan.

Hi Ravi,

Can you tell me if being childish is foolishness? It's one's own behavior and attitude of living life. If I am a happy-go-getter and want to share my thoughts with others, it's no big offense. I do agree with you that the MD and the other senior personnel slog all through the day and must have gotten irritated with his mail. But there is a way of communicating; you cannot be letting out your frustration on others, being in such a responsible position. They must have spoken to him and made a few things clear about their company norms, professionalism that is being followed in their company, etc. I really feel sad for him. I hope he has a great future ahead.

Regards,

Rekha

I think it was highly unethical on MD's part to terminate the guy. He should have been given a chance to explain. If the company has a format, he should have been informed beforehand by his seniors about the format of the introductory mail. That's what I feel. I would request all the members to post any kind of openings on the site so that he can access and get the right kind of job.

Suhrita

This is very unfortunate and unethical. What's even worse is the HR Head dancing to the tune of the MD. If a professional HR Head were in place, they could have solved the issue by applying some minor disciplinary measures according to company policy or by attempting to convince the MD in a proper manner. Moreover, this situation might have a negative impact on their reputation. I believe the HR Director lacks the backbone to support their team member. Nevertheless, may God bless them with a challenging and more rewarding job than TCL.

Thanks,
Nawas

Maybe that MD has a high "ego"; his thinking is like... "nobody can breathe without my order. I feel the fired HR was not fooling himself. He sent the intro mail in an innovative way only. And I feel HR may reject a candidate if the candidate is not up to the mark. What's the big deal if the candidate is technically acceptable? HR can't take the responsibility of hiring a person who is not competent enough. Afterwards, only HR has to face the problem. People should not irritate HR just because somebody lost an opportunity with the denial of HR. I am just offering my thoughts; no desire to hurt anyone.

I agree with Ravi. He definitely had written a very childish and unprofessional email. The words used are also inappropriate. Certain code of conduct should have been maintained. The attitude was also too casual!

On the part of the Managing Director (MD) as well, it was unprofessional. He should have rather explained (or got it explained from his boss) the code of conduct, decorum, work culture, etc.

He should rather learn from his mistake and if he is really talented, he shall definitely get a new job.

I agree. I also offer any assistance needed to find him an appropriate alternate job. My best wishes and luck for him.

Regards,
Neeraj

Hi Ravi,

I think to some extent you are right but not totally, as you are only thinking from a technical point of view. Yes, I agree that he has done a childish act to write an email like this, as though he is writing to his friends, but he must be left with a warning note and not terminated. I hope he has only done this email part; otherwise, if he has done anything else, then we don't know. How was his attitude when he was being questioned in the MD's cabin? A lot of things are involved, and sometimes we won't disclose all the things. I hope that his seniors were conversing in a professional manner when he was being taken into a room to speak about the email.

I hope all the best for this boy in the future, and let him take this as a lesson in life, and he will not commit such mistakes again. He will surely going to get good work.

Thanks and regards,
Sadhana

Hi Everyone,

I think there was a mistake on the part of the new HR guy as well. The introductory email by the new joinees is a good practice in itself. It is a briefing to the existing staff about your Qualifications & Experience. The selection of words was not right on his part.

But I think the MD should have called the HR Head and briefed on the same about the email and his views on the same. So that the same could have been communicated to the new HR guy in a completely different manner. Being a new person in the company, he's not aware of the work culture.

I wish him all the best. He should find something soon.

Regards,
Ruchika

Hi Friends,

In my opinion, the HR guy acted very childishly. Still, I believe the judgment is too harsh on him. Termination is always followed by a warning letter. I have full sympathy for him, but I would like to suggest being more wise while communicating with others in the future.

Regards,
Akhouri Nishant

Hi All,

Sending an introductory email is a good practice. However, in my opinion, the individual should have been more careful with the language of the email since it was being sent to all the seniors. It is quite foolish for an HR personnel to send such an introductory email and cc all seniors without understanding the company's culture, as each organization has a unique work environment.

If the conversation quoted by CYRUS is indeed the actual interaction between the Managing Director and the individual, then I would say the MD may have overreacted. The MD could have simply given a warning or made the individual aware of the company's culture. Who knows, maybe during their private conversation, the individual's attitude was perceived differently?

I believe this individual will secure a good job soon and will certainly learn from this incident. As the saying goes, "Look before you leap."

Sunetra

Hi Cirus,

I am working in an IT company. We have a process where if someone joins the company, an introductory email has to be sent to all employees. This includes the MD, CEO, Director, President US & UK. This process must be strictly followed. An introductory email from HR is the general procedure so that every employee is aware that a new person has joined the company.

In this case, the behavior of the MD was not at all acceptable. He was displaying his frustration towards you. I have experienced that senior personnel are not usually so rude when someone has recently joined the company. The MD is the Brand Ambassador of the company and should maintain a very soft and polite demeanor.

There is no room for termination in such cases. If he did not like the email, he should have ignored it or called you into his office to ask you not to send such emails to senior personnel. At that time, there should have been prior communication to help you understand the company culture.

As the HR head, you should have been informed about the company culture regarding senior behavior. The induction of each employee is very important to prevent any issues that are not conducive to their success.

In any case, termination is not the solution. There should be a warning to cease any actions that go against company policy or culture. The company first assesses all skills, talent, and confidence before hiring, and suddenly resorting to unethical means should not be the way to handle situations.

Hi Cirus,

I am really surprised to know that such a thing can happen to someone. Whatever the case is, this is definitely not the right way of terminating an employee. Don't they have some policies relating to that or what? Anyways, I believe that whoever the person is, he is really good with respect to his work and won't have to wait too long to get a good job. The only thing he should do is fight for his rights, and we are all with you. Keep us updated.

Hi Suhashini,

I never felt anything bad for you! Instead, I feel that you have escaped from a place where freedom of thought is not allowed. I am damn sure that you will come out with flying colors soon. Be thankful to God, and get ready for the superb, cool job in your future.

Let's hope for the best!

Be well,
Suhashini

Well friend,
Every one has his viewpoint, but let me tell you even though I am very very close personally with some of the Senior Officers in my office , still in office , I know where to draw a line between personal and professional life.
Actually you too should have thought before mailing this intro email..
But whatever happens happens for good. Sometimes HR do terminate with insufficient reason and sometimes the MD does as in your case.
Well be professional, there are other ways too to show your creativity and enthusiasm
dont take it to heart..
Ravi

Hi Friend,

Just read the entire email. I think what happened is absolutely unprofessional and out of order or mind. Probably, the MD is undergoing a psychic problem. I mean the same thing could also be handled and communicated in some other way, but not with this outcome. It's demotivating too.

Anyways, friend, don't lose hope; failure can never be final. So keep looking for some other best option which is waiting for you and worth deserving you as well.

Regards,
Amit Bahuguna

I feel he should have challenged the entire thing and asked for a written termination. Also, as an HR officer, he can give a show cause notice to the MD. He should mark the mail to all the Board of Directors and fight for his own rights. Additionally, he should have filed a complaint with the Labor Commissioner in the end. In fact, he should have continued to come to the office until they give him a termination letter, which he can challenge in the labor court. He has lost the job anyway, and if the company's policy clearly states that he need not mark personal emails, then he can be terminated, that too after giving compensation. He should have approached the Tata House and spoken to Ratan Tata directly.

Hi Cirus....thanks for posting a thread on behalf of your friend...here are my comments....plz dnt mistake me for if i sound a bit odd but...

Guys…we are all HR Professionals…..please understand our basics….First impressions are best impressions:
I don't understand why we think “because we are HR professionals we are right ?”

Let's get back to basics; do we forget how to write a formal letter?
I understand that a person is all excited bout joining a new company and he has great talent, all excited a super man but there is a way to express yourself in formal communication.
An introductory email is the formal first email an employee or HR sends to all employees to let others know who you are and what's your background.

Tell me one thing, what has certain unimportant things about a person got to do with MD or any senior to know about you?

Lets accept the fact that you have done a mistake that one drafted a email and may be you were not conscious enough to check before sending email to all as to whom you are sending and or you have not properly drafted email…..Lets go back to that introductory email…who ever wrote it I request the person to read it twice and genuinely make an attempt to redraft the same…I am sure a better professional expression would emerge out of it.

Regarding MD firing a person I don't feel that's wrong as just think about a situation, now you are with 2 years experience tomorrow you become MD and at the very first beginning day of employment of X person, meets you in office and Dances in front of you and introduces himself as …Heyyyy…Yoooo Mannn….howdy….whts up dude…?
Do you like that case?? And you being boss, will you go to him and take him to your cabin and politely say….hey dear x…this is not the way, that you should talk and introduce yourself…bla la bala…I don't think so….

Remember one thing when we are in office, not all people of are of our frequency….lets take a look at this other way around…We have nothing to do with MD and one of your Sr Manager has felt bad about your email and has a wrong impression about you and then on the job he tries to torture you on the name of correcting your attitude which is not expected behavior according to him on the job…how will that situation be??

Your kind of excitement of introducing youself might have looked fine with an Ad Agency or Media or Sports companies or may not be……but to be frank, I am concerned about you but you will have to accept your mistake…to day its this company tomorrow what if its your own company?

How much time will it take to check your email before you send it to some one and make corrections in time? Do you expect an MD of the company gets that email and he should Coach you on drafting emails and sending emails?

I fully agree your excitement and your talent and performance far beyond expectations of all …..but the Things Which Matters Least must not be at the Mercy of Things that Matters Most…..i know you all might say …this equally applies to MD too but look at each others positions and responsibilities and judge yourself…..

Sorry I might sound little bit harsh but facts are facts….
Remembers guys…don't expect for all things that what we do, we should get a chance and then actions. We are grown up and you say that the person is professionals and talented person, if so why does he do silly mistake of sending casual email as a introductory email to MD/CEO and TO All List of the company??? That's strange….

Introductory note , if you put it in right ways….that should be in such a way that people should come to you to know about you, our Journey in any organization will be great n exciting if we unfold ourselves one by one….its left to people to come to you to know more…..

Patience-Perseverance-Focus on the job-our First Impressions-Objectives- Goals in life makes us the best.

I don't expect anybody to highlight unwanted things in email rather then what really matters…. I don't see anything…then what's the use of introductory letter?

Sorry Sir…I can understand it's hard on you but sometimes a small silly mistake costs us a lots…..please don't complain and make issues of MD being wrong….you genuinely soul search yourself….you will find answer……Lets get back to basics if we are not there…..

All i see at that Voting % is that we are all looking from our end....but not ready to correct ourselves.....some times life is too harsh on us that it hardly gives us a chance to correct ourselves......

Regards,

Guys…we are all HR Professionals…..please understand our basics….First impressions are best impressions:
I don't understand why we think “because we are HR professionals we are right ?”

Let's get back to basics; do we forget how to write a formal letter?
I understand that a person is all excited bout joining a new company and he has great talent, all excited a super man but there is a way to express yourself in formal communication.
An introductory email is the formal first email an employee or HR sends to all employees to let others know who you are and what's your background.
Tell me one thing, what has certain unimportant things about a person got to do with MD or any senior to know about you?

Lets accept the fact that you have done a mistake that one drafted a email and may be you were not conscious enough to check before sending email to all as to whom you are sending and or you have not properly drafted email…..Lets go back to that introductory email…who ever wrote it I request the person to read it twice and genuinely make an attempt to redraft the same…I am sure a better professional expression would emerge out of it.

Regarding MD firing a person I don't feel that's wrong as just think about a situation, now you are with 2 years experience tomorrow you become MD and at the very first beginning day of employment of X person, meets you in office and Dances in front of you and introduces himself as …Heyyyy…Yoooo Mannn….howdy….whts up dude…?
Do you like that case?? And you being boss, will you go to him and take him to your cabin and politely say….hey dear x…this is not the way, that you should talk and introduce yourself…bla la bala…I don't think so….

Remember one thing when we are in office, not all people of are of our frequency….lets take a look at this other way around…We have nothing to do with MD and one of your Sr Manager has felt bad about your email and has a wrong impression about you and then on the job he tries to torture you on the name of correcting your attitude which is not expected behavior according to him on the job…how will that situation be??

Your kind of excitement of introducing youself might have looked fine with an Ad Agency or Media or Sports companies or may not be……but to be frank, I am concerned about you but you will have to accept your mistake…to day its this company tomorrow what if its your own company?

How much time will it take to check your email before you send it to some one and make corrections in time? Do you expect an MD of the company gets that email and he should Coach you on drafting emails and sending emails?

I fully agree your excitement and your talent and performance far beyond expectations of all …..but the Things Which Matters Least must not be at the Mercy of Things that Matters Most…..i know you all might say …this equally applies to MD too but look at each others positions and responsibilities and judge yourself…..

Sorry I might sound little bit harsh but facts are facts….
Remembers guys…don't expect for all things that what we do, we should get a chance and then actions. We are grown up and you say that the person is professionals and talented person, if so why does he do silly mistake of sending casual email as a introductory email to MD/CEO and TO All List of the company??? That's strange….

Introductory note , if you put it in right ways….that should be in such a way that people should come to you to know about you, our Journey in any organization will be great n exciting if we unfold ourselves one by one….its left to people to come to you to know more…..

Patience-Perseverance-Focus on the job-our First Impressions-Objectives- Goals in life makes us the best.

I don't expect anybody to highlight unwanted things in email rather then what really matters…. I don't see anything…then what's the use of introductory letter?

Sorry Sir…I can understand it's hard on you but sometimes a small silly mistake costs us a lots…..please don't complain and make issues of MD being wrong….you genuinely soul search yourself….you will find answer……Lets get back to basics if we are not there…..

Hello HRites,

It's surprising to find an incident like this in one of India's most respected organizations. All the best to you, my friend!

Regards,
Shomes

Hi Ravi,

I appreciate your thoughts and understand the irritation felt by the MD, but termination is not a solution!!

Regards,
Soumya

Dear Cirus and V*,

I read the details about the incident. Introducing yourself in such a way is not bad. It's a good way to make people know about you well. But we need to keep something in mind always, there is something called "Organization Culture." Every organization will have its own culture, and we need to respect it and get accustomed to it. Culture can be changed, but a sudden change may bring some chaos in the organization.

The MD who fired you should have first discussed with HR Head and you in person about this. Don't know whether he got blastings from his head(s). There might be several reasons. They should have inducted you completely about the Culture of TCL to avoid such things.

I am also an HR Generalist. I do induct my new entrants on the day of their joining completely about the DOs and DON'Ts in my company and also about the culture we have. This I personally do to make them aware of things that might put them into trouble.

Coming back to your situation now, I would like you to take this as a very good learning in your career. Sometimes the good things you do also bring some problems :)

As an HR professional with 2 years of experience, you will have very good openings anywhere, but make sure you never reveal this incident to the new joining organization and also never mention in your profile the experience of TCL. Just search for new opportunities with the certificates from your previous employer.

As far as justifying your position to the MD is concerned, just send him a detailed email explaining why you sent an introductory mail mentioning that you didn't have any intention of hurting the organization's culture.

All the very best to you for your future.

Regards,

P Umesh

Mr. Ravi,

I am sorry to say that you haven't empathized with the HR guy. You say the email written is childish and the big shot can terminate him simply because he slogged for days and got irritated. Please stop calling the HR guy a fool. I don't see any wrongdoing committed by the HR person. It simply shows that the MD is not open to new ideas or does not want people to follow such a culture. A simple solution could have been advice and not termination.

Adieu.

Hi Ravi,

I agree with what you have said. There are HR people who favor their known persons and do their best to get them selected, even though they are not qualified. As a result, knowledgeable and qualified candidates have to suffer because of this. Without a doubt, I would say that this is wrong on their part if any HR person does this. Moreover, if someone raises an issue against such HR individuals, I am pretty sure that everybody would speak out against them.

It's not about the HR guy or anybody else. In fact, it's about wrong practices that are being followed by any HR professional or employer. We will always support the truth.

Guys, please share more ideas on this!

Cheers,
Tushar

Dear,
I read the mail i feel it is really rediculios what hpnd with the innocent guy he was just tryin to intoduce him self so what wrong in that if this is not required why people ask abt thr hobbies in the interview,iam sure the md has took a very wrong dscn,anyways all the best for that guy.
Safalya

Hi Cirus,

What I read was a shock. I'm unable to imagine what he might have felt after experiencing this. No doubt, all the blame is on that senior person who headed such a reputed organization. I can assure him that everyone reaps the fruits of their deeds because God knows very well who is right and who is wrong, and he will receive justice soon.

Hi Cirus,

I'm not only surprised by Mr. MD's reaction but also by what the HR head was doing. He/she couldn't be by his/her subordinate's side when it was no mistake of his. I think more than anybody else, HR should take a strong stand here, even if the person terminated is from another vertical. If HR is quiet, then God help the organization and its employees. It's an eye-opener for the entire HR fraternity that we should be aware of our duties, responsibilities, and rights at the same time. Termination needs a reason, a valid reason. Just because the MD doesn't like someone/something, it cannot call for termination, which he should be aware of. He is not running a family-run business; it's supposed to be a professional organization.

Thanks & Regards,
Nidhi Shrivastava

Hello people,

I had to reply in this forum specifically for the remark of the gentleman (Mr. Ravi). Coming straight to the issue: Though HRs reject some (very few) candidates because of various reasons (integrity issues, HR issues), which anyone not having an awareness or sound knowledge of "HR methodology" is not at all the right person who can make any remark on the HRs or the work they do. It might be that you had a bad/pathetic experience in the past, but that doesn't mean you can raise a question about HRs in general. And by the way, HRs are supposed to be creative and enthusiastic.

As it goes with Varun Yadav, it is a highly shameful act done by the "MD" of the organization. He should be condemned for such an act. For a person who is so enthusiastic and creative in the mail, for sure, he will definitely go a long way in the HR field. Whatever has happened is just a small hurdle in your successful path in the future.

I say all this because I'm an HR myself. So all the best and be positive.

Hi Cirus,

I'm not only surprised by Mr. MD's reaction but also by what the HR head was doing. He/she couldn't be by his/her subordinate's side when it was not his mistake. I think more than anybody else, HR should take a strong stand here, even if the person terminated is from another vertical. If HR is quiet, then God help the organization and its employees. It's an eye-opener for the entire HR fraternity that we should be aware of our duties, responsibilities, and rights at the same time. Termination needs a reason, a valid reason. Just because the MD doesn't like someone/something, it cannot call for termination, something even he should be aware of.

Thanks & Regards,
Nidhi Shrivastava

Dear All,

This is really sad, but I agree with Ajhan. I am only writing my opinion that all industries have their own protocols. If this were in the domain of IT, Finance, or Telecom, the mail would have been appreciated well. However, in manufacturing industries, things are very different. Companies are still working on typical industrial protocols. TATA's are well known for their values and ethics, and I sincerely admire them as industrialists. I know the intention of the guy was not wrong, but such a casual attitude is not expected from employees at TATA's or in any other reputable company.

I know many people might say I am wrong, but I can only suggest this guy to write an apology letter to senior officials and leave the company in the best possible way. I wish him success in his career and hope he learns from his mistakes.

Dear Cirus/Victim,

Fine. Forget it yaar, look for something else. You know, even Bill Gates was expelled from his school during his studies. Infy Chairman Mr. Narayanamoorthy did not receive an offer from Wipro. All the great celebrities have been denied or faced such incidents. Did they give up? They didn't fight for their rights; they fought for their goals. All the best! Good luck my boy.

Regards,
Deva

Hi friends,

I must say one thing to that guy, "you are not the loser, company is the loser" so cheer up as you have not lost anything. Hope he will get a job very soon.

Best wishes,
Tushar

I certainly feel that the MD is at total fault. Firstly, since the HR Head had recruited this person, she must have seen something worthwhile in him and hence selected him. I think the MD should be asked to give a written explanation for terminating the service, which I think he won't give because the reason quoted by the MD is totally baseless. I wish the guy and his friend all the very best. Keep us updated on what happened to the MD.

Hi all,

Mixed reactions here! While I empathize with the enthusiastic young lad, I believe he made his move too fast. As a professional, whenever you join any organization for the first time, your initial objective is to assess the work culture, the do's and don'ts, and then plan your approach.

Office emails are meant for official purposes, and there was nothing official about this email. It's also apparent that this introductory email culture is lacking. I'm sure he must have received many welcoming emails, but that doesn't justify his action. I think he should discuss this with the Managing Director (MD) and express his viewpoint before taking any further steps. If the Head of HR supports him, I believe the MD will understand the reasons he was hired for the role.

Regards,
Monica

Hi,

Definitely, the MD's behavior is not pardonable. It is really sad that a person with his caliber has been treated in this manner. I am sure he will not be idle for long. He will soon find a suitable position. Wishing him all the very best.

Cheers,
Gladies

Dear Cirrus,

I agree that the termination decision was an extreme step, but I also find that Sr. Ex's mail was complete nonsense. The mail looks like it was written to a friend rather than a colleague, boss, or junior. If a fresh graduate, CRM, or marketing person had written that mail, somehow it might have been digested, but an HR person with two years of work experience writing a mail like this is unacceptable.

Every organization has its own culture and climate. One organization may follow a flat structure and open culture where anybody can approach the senior-most person for any reason or address them by name, while in another organization, there may be a strict hierarchy and formal structure. Before writing such a mail, I think one should have an understanding of the culture and climate of the organization.

Shweta Bharti

Its realy depressing to read all this but I truly feel.....
He was best suited for the job, but the company was not what he deserved.

Don't worry my dear as the company doesn't close down because of one person.
Same way deserving person's career does not stop, he will get much more opportunities

Cheer up !!!!!! :icon1:

Hi Cirus,
It is very sad to read this. The MD of this Company is a person who does not have any sense of Humour and sense of Humanity.
[IMG]https://www.citehr.com/images/icons/icon9.gif[/IMG]
Asha Manjunath

Hi,

As a new appointee, especially in HR, the individual should have known that he is supposed to adhere to the company policies regarding his conduct and behavior. He ought to have inquired whether it would be alright to send an introductory email without formal approval. His action of writing an email immediately upon joining, without prior approval, was highly irregular and uncalled for. He has displayed a lot of immaturity in his behavior. He should learn from this experience and focus on his work instead of boasting about himself by sending irresponsible emails.

Cyril

Hi all,

After reading the article, I observed that the email the HR person wrote was a bit childish. Perhaps he wanted to project himself as an enthusiastic and happy-go-lucky person. His email was more focused on his personal interests rather than professional interests. However, just because he wrote an email like this, termination is definitely not an appropriate action!

Thank you, Cirus, for bringing to light the issues happening all around us. I am also thinking along the same lines. Just sending an introductory email on how a senior person can handle the termination of an employee from his company. Instead of termination, the Managing Director could warn him not to send such emails. This fact is an eye-opener. I will definitely try to help Mr. Yadav.

Regards,
Vandana Sharma

That guy should have introduced himself not by such a childish email but by proving his creditworthiness and worth through exceeding the expectations of his peers and bosses with his work. Such emails are a waste if they do not bring in business for the company. You ought to mature up, bro. Cheers.

Here is a small diagram for you all to look into it and introspect, If we consider HR as central part of any organizations then, all Entry and Exit of new and existing employees rests in the hands of HR and respective department heads, if that is the case then we as HR if we all accept the fact that there certain obligations that rests in the hands of HR ..Where do we stand? Concern for Employer and Concern for employee?
When we have struggled lots to understand and get set with our positions, we then obviously must have learnt important things during our course of learning, if that is right then it is we who are supposed to get well equipped with expected behavior on the job, which is what we translate to all the employees.
For me , I feel that we should all start treating everybody in and out of office as our customers and when we treat everybody as our customers , we will try our level best to treat all to keep them happy and satisfied, during our course of actions if some customer is unhappy and don't what to buy your solutions can you complain about it? Well all together when our customer himself is our boss then can you complain about it? I am not saying that we should work like slaves , only showing concern for employer and not employee….but the fact is we have not meet our goal in meeting the customers expected behavior. So I once again say that, lets not creep about what has gone wrong but learn from mistakes and keep moving.
There are lots of stores about our own homes where our own people say, “Get out….enough of it now…”
Lets take it with pinch of salt and keep moving as thers a lots to see and achieve further.

This will Soon Pass away ....learn from mistakes..better ourselves..but dont repeat it...

Actually my objective of creating that diagram was something else but ….that's fine if that inspires somebody to write some things about it for our ongoing learning.

Regards,

I think this is a cultural issue. I have mentioned it many times on this platform that it is important for a HR Professional to be well versed with the business and culture of different organizations.

Tata's (and for that matter Birla's, Godrej's, Mahindra's and Bajaj's ) are known for their culture and corporate tradition. I am not shocked by the reaction and reply of the organization. There was no professionalism in the introductory mail of your friend. Does he forgot that he is writing an email in a corporate environment, which will be read by all department heads…as well as MD? Does he forgot that he is not writing this email to his friends?

Such cases are not new. Earlier also many such incidents has happened….in BIG MNC's…like DHL and Microsoft.

One should take responsibility for his behavior and actions.
I hope this will help.

Thanks and Regards
Sanjeev

Over-enthusiasm may not work. For a newcomer to the organization, the proper procedure is for their head to take them around and introduce them to other officials. Additionally, during the induction program, a get-together meeting is organized. The penalty they have to pay is a little harsh, of course.

Really sad to hear about this. This clearly shows a lack of tolerance in today's world. Even if this guy did something against the company guidelines/policies, I would not think that he deserved termination.

Regards

Dear All,

Perhaps this is the reason people say you should know the culture of the organizations. Some organizations just do not like such emails. Anyway, if the HR guy is competent, he will get a job, and sympathizing is not the solution.

Mr. Yadav's mail was a bit childish. Many seniors and other colleagues may not like this kind of stuff. However, this doesn't call for his termination. He should learn from this experience and be careful in the future, as organizations have their own policy of introducing a new recruit. Also, employees, including top management, are not allowed to send mail to all users at the office.

I wish him all the very best for his new assignment in a new company.

Hi,

The incident definitely demoralizes the HR community, which is responsible and vital for any organization, whether it is big or small. I hope there is no harm in sending the introductory mail to the MD along with all. On the other hand, I could not find any mistake in his wording. The senior HR presented himself in a clear manner. As an HR executive, he wants to create a friendly environment by presenting his flexible and sportive attitude.

Finally, we express our solidarity with the Senior HR Executive and wish him all the best. From this episode, I clearly understood that the MD must change his attitude towards his co-employees. Otherwise, the same attitude may create problems in the organization in the future.

Regards,
Madepalli

This is very sad to hear. The guy was fit for the company; he is a talented person, and I hope that his problem gets solved.

What ever has happened is wrong. I am sure that cannot be undone, but what can certainly be done is help your friend find an appropriate job. Please ask him to mail across his CV to akns.swaminath@gmail.com. Though I do not promise anything upfront, I will give it a good try. I have a soft corner for him as I was also a Commissioned officer till about a little over 2 years back. Presently, though I am in a position to help him. He may also reach me at 9885744544.

There is, however, one restraint. As I am presently based in Hyderabad, I may only be able to help him find a job in Hyderabad. If that is fine, ask him to get in touch with me.

Regards,
Swaminath Adabala

if this has happened in Tata group, it shall be a shamefull thing in this part thay has occured.
the prerson has to ask for a writing note for termination and if he wishes can go for NHRC.
or else, if he is a cool guy, try for some other company and move on...as the proverb says better not to hit head to a stone, allthough the stone may be in the wrong path, because head will be the thing getting affected in the end.
regards
keshava

Ravi, how can you be so rude to this guy? I think you are one more MD of some company. If any new joinee sends an introductory letter to their colleagues, whether senior or junior, it should be welcomed. I agree that he should have filtered and used his words more carefully. But if it's true that he got terminated because of that, then it's too much. MDs who use such words cannot take care of their company. I know of companies that promise big during interviews, but after a week of work, the reality of the company sets in. MDs may think they are very important in the organization, but I question whether they can manage without their office boy, receptionist, HR, etc. It's a team effort, and everyone needs to support each other for success to be achieved. Every role is important in an organization. Maybe the MD was unable to perform his work, so he took out his frustrations on that guy due to dissatisfaction.

It doesn't hurt to have some variety and entertainment in the midst of grave seriousness. The email was written with good intentions, with a view to present the writer's image as an open person. If the MD took it so seriously, then I must say people like him are the ones who make an organization very boring. It has been a case of what we can call a storm in a teacup.

Hi All,

I have read the mail where Cyrus explained everything and I read it twice. I do agree with him that termination on the basis of just an introductory mail was not at all fair and justified. We usually have a welcome mail in the company to be sent to all by the HR team to make all others aware that a new person named... has joined and a brief description about his profile and what he likes, etc. So, there is nothing wrong when he has sent this mail to all. However, what I think may bother some senior people in the company is the language he has used throughout the mail. It was his first mail to all, and as an HR professional, we are expected to take care of the company's culture and use formal language in the mail we send. I do agree that we can use informal language when it's about a birthday celebration or a picnic, but when you've just joined the company and are sending the very first mail, then the use of words like "FREAK" and all is too casual.

I think the HR Head of TCL is responsible for explaining to all the new recruits what kind of culture the company follows and brief him about the board of directors/seniors and the way the new recruit should communicate with them. I am very much in agreement with what the MD has done to him was wrong, but we, as HR professionals, are supposed to be open and alert. We should always give some time to understand what kind of company we are getting into because everything is not right everywhere, and every individual has a different perception of the same words.

All the best to that guy!! He will definitely find a nice job again.

Shivani

The foundation of courage is solid, the rock that doesn't roll. Courage is the freedom of our mind, body, and soul!

God has a better plan for your life. God Bless.

Neta

Hi,

This particular incident clearly points out the mental makeup and thinking of the MD. He seems to be close-minded. The gentleman in question would definitely get the job as he is qualified. The sad part is that he may not remain the same in his enthusiasm because of this incident.

It also shows the weak-kneed approach of the HR Head/VP of Tata Coffee. I feel they were scared of losing their job in case they persisted.

Daleep (doctor57)

I think MD was right, reason being the organization norms of professionalism, the first impression, and he did not want employees to start such type of fun mails...so firstly one has to see whether the welcome mail is soo informal or formal then reply accordingly...the same happend to one of my colleague he mailed to all heads (look below) and our MD phoned to his boss and asked what type of person he has in department...and this should not happen in future and beleive me that guy stoped mailing like it. I think it is a learning for all of us and it will help us a lot in making HR true professionalism if we apply this.
Imagine you are HR Director...what would be your response? be realistic.
(Colleague Mail)
Hi,

FIRST OF ALL I WOULD LIKE TO DEDICATE MY RESPECTFUL THOUGHTS FOR MY VERY RESPECTED SENIORS AND A FRESH HANDSOME BOKAY OF FLOWERS.


Respect for ourselves guides our morals; respect for others guides our manners.

<image no longer exists>

OHHHHHHH TOO MUCH THANKS FOR RECEIVING MY FLOWERS WITH SO MANY SMILESSSSS.


I AM V THANKFUL TO MANAGEMENT WHO HIRE ME AS JUNIOR ACCOUNTANT AND GIVE ME A OPPORTUNITY TO INHANCE MY PROFESSIONAL ABILITIES.AND I SURE THAT ALL MY SENIORS IN ALL DEPATMENTS WIIL GUIDE ME PROFESSIONALY AND FRIENDLY ENVIORNMENT FROM EVERY ASPECT OF A FROFESSIONAL LIFE, AND GIVE ME A FROFESSIONAL TRICKS FOR MY FUTURE SUCCESSFIUL CAREER……………..……….A BUNDLE OF THANKS.

Power is a tool often mishandled. I am sorry that you have had such an awful experience with TATA. It is a reputable company and should have professional management.

I wish you luck in your future and hope that you will remember how not to treat people when you are in a position of power.

Good luck & God bless

PVQ

Termination of the said HR guy is certainly undesirable. However, an HR professional must consider the culture of the organization before taking any step. Respect for hierarchy, culture, and the profile of the organization should never be lost sight of in any initiative. It is not to suggest that people should not be creative and think out of the box. Let this learning further strengthen the professional skills and attitudes of the said HR guy. Everything is not lost by losing one job opportunity; he must come out stronger.

- N Kumar

The MD was absolutely right in doing what he did. It's not about this HR guy; it's about what is right and what is wrong. Imagine if everyone in TCS started writing hello notes to everyone else in the organization. I can only think of one word - Chaos. Being an HR professional, he should have had enough sense to understand the impact of such a thing at an organizational level. The second thing is you don't go and start doing whatever you feel like in a new organization. You first settle down, understand the organization and its culture, and then you act! The MD terminated this person not because of the letter but because of the immaturity exhibited by this person. An immature HR professional is more dangerous than an incompetent one.

My advice to the individual in question: Grow up! HR is a critical function, and there is absolutely no room for immaturity, and there is definitely no room for people who think HR is an easy way to become popular. You need to decide whether you want to be popular or an effective HR professional because you can never be both!

Cheers,

Navneet

Hi Navneet,

It's too early to jump to a conclusion. I think you haven't read the entire article properly. I request you to kindly go through it once again.

You are talking about immaturity? What kind of maturity has the MD and HR Head shown? It's a clear case where one person who has joined has become the target of the MD's frustration, and the HR Head is incompetent to save her own person.

Termination is always followed by a final warning. In this case, it didn't happen. Secondly, people learn from their mistakes. In my view, if I were the MD, I would have discussed the matter with the HR Head, where the new guy should have been appreciated for his young thoughts and creativity. This would have boosted his confidence, followed by inducting the young talent with the organization's culture and policies.

This approach would have led the young person to know his mistake, and the organization would have benefited from his services.

I know this guy in person; hence, I strongly disagree with your comments.

Regards,
Cirus

Hi all!

I read the real incident and other's opinion & am sad to know :(

I am a little bit confused as well about the guy's introductory email, but I have to say it's just a childish decision to be terminated moreover it's been done verbally. The MD himself has been showing unprofessionalism by means of not to welcome his introductory mail as well as created halo effect in front of all TCL's employees that he is one of the Managing Directors whose not having kind nature for his employees.

To send introductory email to the staff, seniors & even to MD/ CEO, is a common & a very professional way to introduce our self by electronically mails them.

Well one thing I noticed that the guy who suffered this experience needed to modify his introductory email, because his email somewhat showed an informal way to introduce himself; as he sent copy to seniors so he had to be a bit formal in his introductory email along with short & precise. However his email shows he is a cool guy & wish to work in a cool environment but as far as my knowledge & experience is concerned this would have mentioned in a short way…. And here I need some suggestions upon it either I am presuming right?

But despite of it I am still not in favor of MD's immediate action, as that was not a solution to be terminated, even not as an issue as MD created to call in his cabin. In a professional manner he would have asked to HR head to guide the guy about his introductory email if he had a problem with. Otherwise MD made a childish decision to terminate that guy.


A VERY BEST OF LUCK FOR HIS CAREER – ORIENTED JOB & A DAZZLING FUTURE AHEAD


Kind Regards


sHaFiA

Hi Friends,

We must be careful when we send out an email to others because it will be a record of whatever you send. Ensure that the email is not copied to the MD, CEO, and senior managers. There is an email etiquette to consider - what to send and to whom. The email that was sent was very informal and should only be sent to people at the same management level, not even to senior managers and VPs. My friend sent a forward to the boss and was fired for that. While forwards may be good, we need to be extra cautious.

Priya

The incident clearly shows the prevalence of unprofessionalism at all levels in the organization. I guess it's the generation gap... such kind of introductory emails, proactiveness, initiation, and easy-going nature are appreciated by today's professionals but not by the older generation. It also shows that others in the organization, like the VP and HR (Head), do not hold any power as they were unable to handle the situation. The organization doesn't seem to have a good future, as it is evident that there is no proper delegation of power or professionalism.

A good organization requires employees who excel at their work. If they hold responsible positions, they must have the courage to say "NO" to the boss when the situation demands it.

It's good that this person didn't waste their services on such an organization. I hope they find the right job that aligns with their attitude and nature. Wishing them all the best.

Prashanti

Hello All,

I don't know with what motive or feeling people write in the context of Cirus's friend. Personally, I feel that if something like this had happened to me at some point in my career when I eagerly joined a big corporate organization, transitioning from a consultancy, I would have felt lost and considered myself a loser.

Just imagine, if something similar were to happen to you someday... Don't just think with your brains, but for once, think from your heart. How would you react if you didn't have good friends around you? I truly believe Cirus is doing a fabulous job helping his friend. With the same sentiment, we HR professionals should step up and try to help this individual to the best of our abilities.

I don't know how many of you agree with me, but I am determined to assist him. I have his resume, and with Cirus's assistance, I am utilizing all my contacts to support him. I kindly request all of you to help him if you can and if you want to.

Warm Regards,
Sneha Raj,
WIPRO Infotech
Bangalore

It's a good lesson which the chap has learned in a very bad way, which I'm sure he will never forget. But I really feel the MD SHOULD LEARN A LESSON too. How can he simply enjoy his life and make this chap's life difficult for the days he gets a new job, SO TRAUMATIC... Jobs are easy to get these days, but at the end of it, I know it's not that easy too...

We HR professionals are supposed to take care of Employee Grievances, Employee relationships, etc., but if people in our HR fraternity, if we HR professionals are only facing such issues, then how can the organization think that we can handle or ease the rest of the employees? We should think over this...

All industries have different cultures, norms, etc., I'm sure Varun did the introductory mailer thing just because he belongs to the IT Services industry. My statement doesn't imply that I support his termination because of his Introductory mail sent in a Manufacturing industry. Please, grow up as HR professionals if you are condemning Varun for this act. This act of his should have been discussed only with the HR Head, and not even by the MD. If the MD is so busy, then how does he have so much time to call and rebuke a Senior HR Executive in his cabin, in front of the VP, HR Head, and Deputy manager? It's not worth a termination (written/verbal) also. And we talk about this grand Tata's. Guys, this chap hasn't even received a mail which says that he has been terminated from them. Aren't they aware that a candidate needs to have certain documents for joining another organization? He worked there for nearly 10 days, and this whole scene happens, isn't he entitled to his 10 days' salary? The company is making him run for that too. First of all, his esteem is down, getting jobs is difficult, he had to buy back 45 days' notice period in the previous organization, and now they are making him run for his own documents. Doesn't this sound pathetic? Just imagine what the chap is going through.

It's very easy to condemn or sympathize with someone, but just feel if it would have happened with you... I really feel Varun is very strong because he is still very optimistic. I know him very closely and I myself come from a Manufacturing industry background, so I can confidently say the fault is that of the MD only...

Dear All,

There are some individuals who behave unprofessionally in life and in their careers. So, never feel bad because you have done the right thing - in simple words, you extended your hand to shake with others, but they rejected it. That's it. You have shown the right and new gesture in introducing yourself to that big corporate, but they are unable to reciprocate the handshake. Cool, buddy, nothing to worry about.

Another point to observe is how the HR head tried to convey his helplessness. I believe that the HR should consider resigning from his job because if he is unable to ensure the security of his own people, what will he do if faced with a similar situation? I think he should submit his resignation and move on.

Apologies if the HR head in question is reading this. I have experienced a similar situation in my previous job.

Regards,
RR

The boss should call this MD and tell him that he has been terminated for his rude behavior with an inspiring young officer. I feel sorry for the gentleman and am sure he will not find it hard to get a job. I pray that he will get one soon. He should not be disappointed because of the behavior of the MD.

Hi there,

What I feel from the entire incident is that termination was not the solution to it. This is a sheer case of 'power' & nothing else.

But again this incident has two sides to it. The first mistake that this guy made was that he marked the MD in the introductory mail for which he had to pay a price.

The second thing is that the MD's attitude was absolutely wrong.

Well, every person is different & so would his nature be.

The victim here could have drafted a different email, which could have been a little more professional if he had to only mark it to the MD. Often we tend to forget that it is not essential that all people would think similar to what we think. It was a really nice gesture on the part of that guy, but he failed to differentiate the mindset of the people around him & just thought that the others around him too were just like him 'happy go lucky'.

In my view, the mail could have been a little more professional if it had to be marked to the MD. (which was actually not required to be marked) After all, we are professionals & ought to behave like professionals at the workplace. And being HR professionals, we ought to imply this. He could have just marked it to the HR guys & the relevant people with whom he would be closely working.

But, termination certainly wasn't the solution. In fact, the words uttered for him & the attitude itself of the MD was wrong. He shouldn't have humiliated that guy in front of all. This is just a matter of 'Power & Authority' which the MD wanted to prove.

Hope this was a learning lesson for the guy & I'm sure he has a lot of potential & will fly his way in the sky overcoming this situation.

Wish him Luck!!!

Regards Suvarna Jadhav HR Executive

Thank you very much to all HR professionals for their views and suggestions.

The agenda was to expose the things happening in big corporates and to spread awareness to all young, aspiring, enthusiastic talents that things may worsen, and one should be extra careful when dealing with senior management.

Thanks and keep posting your views.

CHEERS!

Hi,

I fully agree with Ravi. We HR professionals are striving to create a work environment, culture, and attitude in the organization. Don't you think it is our responsibility and duty to monitor our own actions and words as well? Perhaps this individual was meant to be given more significant responsibilities; maybe that's why the Managing Director became irritated and decided that the individual was not capable of fulfilling the role for which he was hired. Although the introductory email was undoubtedly immature, there was no justification for his termination.

In my experience, I have observed that people and employees have high expectations from HR professionals. Being in HR is not child's play; it is a serious matter as long as you are within your organization's premises.

Thanks,
Vidhya

Hi,

We hear only one side, and we should not make comments based solely on that one side. Obviously, we cannot bring the Managing Director of Tata Coffee to this forum and question him. There are ups and downs for everyone, and these experiences can be shared without specifically naming companies in forums like this. By bringing such issues to an open forum, one may be hindering their own growth. It is advisable not to mention the company's name as this matter is highly personalized.

Siva

Hi,

As I commented earlier, the new appointee has been very immature in his actions. More so, as an HR person, he should have been extra careful and familiarized himself with the company's policies and practices, and strictly adhered to them. Maybe the termination was too harsh of an action, but in the eyes of the MD, perhaps a person doing this on the first day of the job was not the right fit for the organization. Unfortunately, he has learned the lesson the hard way. He should be more careful at least in the future. We hope he will be back on the saddle soon.

Cyril

The whole episode reflects the unfair role played by the HR Head. It further focuses on the HR status in such a big organization. That is why, it is my sincere advice before joining any company/organization, please know the ETHICS of the company also.

My good wishes with you.

"If you have potential, then there is no boundary."
Markam

Both parties have shown a lack of maturity.

Firstly, the new entrant has no business sending a self-introductory email that is full of personal preferences and achievements rather than a professional rundown. This information should have been shared with him privately or with those he is socially associated with in due time. A formal introductory email is typically sent from the HR department. This also provides food for thought for the HR department to reconsider their induction schedule/program and possibly delve into these minute details.

Secondly, the way this situation was handled by the senior (MD) was also incorrect. The company policy should have been followed for the termination of his contract. There was no need for the MD himself to get involved. There are senior people (HOD's) who should have appropriately dealt with the case after a discussion with the MD.

All the episode is more surprising than sad. Actually, that introductory mail has hurt the ego of that MD. Though that guy/girl is not at fault. Not intentionally, but he had hurt the ego of that MD. He is praising himself in that mail and sending it to MD as well. It's like "Suraj ko Diya Dikhana". The MD is, of course, a higher personality than him. So, all the episode is just based on the thinking and feeling of that MD. No rules can be made in this regard.

My two cents... If I were the HR head, I would not accept the termination. I would ask the MD directly that HR is a powerful organization within the company, and HR will decide and act based on management vision and objectives. So, DON'T OVERRULE HR. That's it. He has not done anything wrong as per the company's policy, norms, values, and culture. Additionally, I will issue a memo to the MD regarding unprofessional behavior.

Thanks,
Manoj Elanjickal

Hi guys, whatever has happened to that guy is really very sad. It's not entirely his mistake; management should not have taken such immediate action.

Well, what I feel is that if we are joining a new company, we should ask the HR Head regarding the company policies and procedures first. In this case, that guy should have at least asked the HR head first regarding the introduction procedure. According to me, neither the introductory email was professional nor the behavior of the management. After being such a big organization, you cannot terminate anyone for such a stupid reason. They should have talked to him that this should not happen again in the future and must have seen his performance.

Gone through the mail... It's very sad to note such incidents. But my friend, take it easy because it's all in the game. Think that something better is waiting for you; that's why it happened. As most of them have said, yes, you are innovative so you cannot sit idle for a long time. You will be back on track to reach your destiny soon.

May God bless you.

Termination was certainly not the right action. However, the mail was too unprofessional. HR is the face of the employees. An introductory mail written professionally well is accepted, but certainly not in such a manner. The first impression is the last impression. No company would want to pass on a wrong impression to their employees. Had the mail been more professional, I am sure it would have certainly been appreciated. Probably over-enthusiasm and a casual attitude of the HR person led to such a disaster. However, termination is not justified here.