A businesswoman based in Singapore recently ignited a lively discussion on LinkedIn after sharing a brutally honest resignation note she received from an employee. In a message that has since gone viral, the employee wrote, “I felt like toilet paper, used when needed, discarded without a second thought.”
Notably, he wrote the note on a piece of toilet paper itself. “I have chosen this type of paper for my resignation as a symbol of how this company has treated me. I quit,” it read.
Angela Yeoh, the director of the firm, said the experience left a lasting impression on her. Yeoh shared the incident to highlight the deeper issue at hand—how undervaluing employees can quietly erode workplace culture.
She reflected, “Make your employees feel so genuinely appreciated that even when they decide to leave, they walk away with gratitude, not resentment… Appreciation isn’t just a tool for retention. It’s a reflection of how much a person is valued, not just for what they do but for who they are.”
Take a look at the post:
Screenshot of the LinkedIn post
Her candid post hit a nerve. The comments section quickly filled with emotional reactions and personal stories.
“Well said! Having said that, a company culture may be unhealthy, it is down to the manager to help create a safe and thriving space for the team,” a person wrote.
Another person wrote, “People mistreat other people; Companies are only as good at treating people as are those who direct the actions and people decisions of the company. Lead with intent AND empathy.”
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A third person commented, “Wow—those words really hit hard. It’s a powerful reminder that how we treat people in the ‘in-between’ moments says everything about our culture. Genuine appreciation isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about consistent respect, empathy, and acknowledgment. When employees feel seen and valued as individuals, not just resources, they carry that positivity with them, no matter where they go. Culture isn’t just what we say—it’s what we show. Thank you for sharing this perspective.”
Another said, “Your title just hit the nail on the head with my current experience. I should have used toilet paper instead of paper for my resignation letter.”