Workplace hierarchies can sometimes create unnecessary tensions.

This man was an entry-level employee who was told not to speak to the regional manager.

He decided to follow the rule to the letter.

So when the regional manager arrived, he acted as if he were non-existent.

Read the full story below for all the details.

Do not speak to the regional manager

Many moons ago, I was the lowest guy at Rent-A-Center.

The Regional Manager, Greg, was visiting.

My manager wanted all the attention.

So he told me not to speak to Greg for any reason.

This man stayed silent when the Regional Manager introduced himself.

When Greg arrived, he introduced himself and shook my hand, but I stayed silent.

My manager gave a nervous smile and told him my name.

Later, the phone rang for Greg.

I yelled for my manager across the store that the phone was for Greg.

Even though Greg was standing right next to me.

He continued to ignore Greg, and his boss was embarrassed.

Greg asked why I didn’t just tell him directly.

I silently looked at my manager.

He awkwardly admitted he’d told me not to talk to him.

Greg found it ridiculous, and my manager looked like a fool.

Let’s find out what others have to say about this.

This person is impressed and curious.

This user thinks he handled it perfectly.

Short and simple.

This one shares what they would have done.

Another short but honest remark.

And lastly, people are loving the story.

When you treat your employees like robots, don’t be surprised when they act like one.

If you liked that story, check out this post about an oblivious CEO who tells a web developer to “act his wage”… and it results in 30% of the workforce being laid off.