I pledge allegiance to my executives...

not *bad* behavior, just weird 🤨

Author

Amber Rhodes
December 9th, 2024

Readers, today’s tea isn’t necessarily bad behavior…but it is just plain weird. 

You’ve heard the news about the UnitedHealthcare CEO. I know you have because how could you not?

(Don’t worry, I won’t go into it. This is just context for the next bit.)

So, a few days ago, a Redditor shared this email from their friend who works as an actuary at a small insurance consultancy. It was no doubt prompted by recent events.

The email reads:

Reaffirming Our Pledge to Our Work and Eachother [sic]

Dear Team,

In light of recent events in our industry, several employees have reached out to express concerns about safety, particularly regarding the well-being of our executive team. We take these concerns very seriously and are committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels secure and supported.

To help reinforce our shared commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful workplace, we are requiring each of you to take the following pledge. Please copy the text of the pledge in the attached document and reply to this email with your name included.

All employees are required to take the pledge. [emphasis my own]

Best regards,
[Redacted]

The attached pledge reads:

Safety and Solidarity Pledge

I, [insert your name here], pledge to uphold the safety and well-being of my colleagues and the [redacted] family as a whole. I commit to:

1. Reporting any safety concerns or threats promptly through appropriate channels, championing a culture rooted in respect, collaboration, and mutual support, and taking proactive measures to uphold a secure and inclusive working environment for all employees, including senior leadership.

2. Recognizing the health insurance industry and its vendors as an indispensable pillar of the American healthcare system.

3. Understanding that the sharing or misuse of any employee’s personal information, including that of executives, constitutes a breach of policy and may result in legal consequences.

4. Acknowledging the vital role of executives as the organization’s key drivers of success and as exemplars of leadership and professionalism.

5. Denouncing any and all forms of violence or threats against executives, unequivocally and without exception.

By affirming this pledge, I underscore my dedication to [redacted], where safety, respect, and integrity are prioritized.

Ummm………….huh?

Some of these points are fine.

I support the safety of employees! Keep data secure! Respect each other!

But some are kinda weird, right?

Plus, others have pointed out that 1) it’s not cool to make it mandatory, 2) it’s virtually unenforceable, and 3) it’s actually kinda condescending.

What do you think about it?

Would you sign the pledge if you worked at this company?

I’ve love to hear your perspective!

Have you witnessed a founder behaving badly? The tip line is now open đź“ž 

Reply

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