India, July 25 -- A first-time manager was left utterly stunned after a routine probation meeting devolved into workplace chaos, complete with shouting, sudden walkouts, and an unexpected guest. After failing probation at almost six months into the role, a 33-year-old team assistant flat-out refused to attend her termination meeting, leaving the building in anger. But the most awkward turn of events was yet to come: when the meeting was finally rescheduled, the grown employee announced she would be bringing her mother along as her official support person.

"So I manage a team assistant. They have been with the business for almost 6 months. Note I only became her manager 2 months ago, prior to this someone else was managing her. We are com...