Employee asked to pay to work at startup: ‘They made her start working even before….’

A Reddit user recently shared a disturbing account involving a friend who encountered highly questionable practices at a newly joined startup. Posting on the Indian Workplace community, the individual described how the situation quickly turned uncomfortable and alarming.

The friend had accepted the role despite a long commute that consumed nearly four hours each day. Even before any formal employment paperwork was provided, she was expected to begin working immediately. To make matters worse, the company collected her original documents right at the outset, leaving her in a vulnerable position.

As days passed, the work environment revealed deeper issues. Senior staff reportedly behaved in an unprofessional and demeaning manner. At one point, a top executive allegedly spoke harshly, using disrespectful language and even making personal remarks about her family. Such conduct created an atmosphere that was not only hostile but also deeply inappropriate for a professional setting.


The situation became even more troubling when the company delayed issuing an official offer letter. When it was eventually provided, it reportedly included questionable terms that raised further concerns. Despite putting in long hours—often stretching well beyond a typical workday—she found herself dealing with constant stress and uncertainty.

One of the most shocking aspects of the experience was that she was allegedly asked to pay money in order to continue working at the organization. This unusual and exploitative demand served as a clear warning sign that something was seriously wrong.

Fortunately, she chose to leave the company within a week. After some effort, she was able to recover her original documents and distance herself from the toxic environment. The Reddit user shared the story as a cautionary tale, urging others to be vigilant when evaluating job opportunities. They emphasized that early warning signs, such as lack of formal documentation, disrespectful behavior, and suspicious policies, should not be ignored.

The post drew reactions from other users who reflected on similar experiences. One commenter pointed out that in moments of urgency or financial pressure, it can be difficult to recognize fraudulent or exploitative situations. Another user recalled their own early career experience, noting that while certain strict conditions existed, they were at least clearly communicated upfront. They expressed surprise that such questionable practices still persist today, highlighting the need for greater awareness among job seekers.