@rayckeith I had very similar experiences with a US company. Threats to be 'let go' if I didn't do a whole list of things every week, which would take me way beyond 40 hours. A letter from my lawyer changed their minds, offering instead a generous payment if I resigned voluntarily.

@rayckeith
Huge "some people choose to wear more and we encourage that, ok" energy.

@rayckeith

It is the same in Germany. The last, and possibly only, time a US Supermarket tried to open chains here they simply couldn't cope with the fact that employees have protections in law!

@rayckeith I had the similar problem more than 30 years ago. I told the manager that I work for a living and that the earnings must be good for my wife, my kids and myself. If he himself doesn't value his family life, he wouldn't value being together with co-workers either.

@rayckeith
Story from 16 years ago Canada.
Working at a small software company (less than 10 people) They hired a new manager: An American of Indian origin who's leadership experience was in the US Military.
He tried to manage by vocal volume and intimidation. Caused some of the staff to breakdown, the rest had none of his BS and just ignored him.
It was a toxic environment before this fellow showed up, made worse by his presence, and couldn't recover.
There was a mass exodus from there within 6m and I'm pleased to report the company doesn't exist anymore.