Working from home has ushered in the age of mindless video calls. Apparently it never occurred to everyone that simple phone calls minus the face-to-face aspect have been and are still available for use, but I digress.
As much as I abhor when someone suggests we "jump on a Zoom call," I've found a way closely monitor my WFH interns. Most of the WFH world has gotten complacent and have taken solace knowing that they can roll out of bed, throw a hat on, and nonchalantly walk over to their desk wearing boxer briefs, sweatpants, shorts, or their strap-on dildo (okay the last one might just be me but you get the point).
I am completely fine with being able to work comfortably at home without being pressured to get ready and look entirely presentable.......unless you are an intern.
Interns are sub-human. Interns rights are not inherent. Interns have temporary privileges that are granted by people like myself.
Last week, I caught one of my interns, Trevor, attempting to exercise one of his so-called rights on our morning virtual intern cig burn lineup on Zoom. Since I can't physically burn the cigarette on their cheeks via Zoom, I have them simulate a reaction on video if I were to do it. The louder they scream in agony, the more bread they are rationed for the week.
Trevor showed up wearing a suit jacket and tie (as I mandate), but something was off. I asked Trevor to tilt down his camera so I could see what he was wearing on the bottom-half of his body. Trevor began to stutter and ask why. I repeated one more time. "Trevor, tilt the camera down and let me see your pants."
Sweatpants.
I immediately logged off and threw my laptop out of the window in anger. I'm still trying to figure out a proper punishment for his disobedience. Anyone have any recommendations for how I should handle Trevor?
-paddy
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