Work on weekends and keep your phone on, PR manager tells employees

Baidu PR head Qu Jing said she would make it «impossible»; for those who complain to find another job in this sector. Photo: haymarketmedia

A communications executive has come under fire for demanding staff take 50-day trips and brushing off concerns about overtime by saying: “I’m not your mother.”

Qu Jing, head of public relations at China's largest search engine Baidu, told employees that they should of course be willing to accompany her on week-long trips and boasted that she was so devoted to her. work that she didn't know what year her son was in school.

In a series of now-deleted videos posted on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, Ms Qu said she didn't care about the impact of her tough policy on her employees' home lives because she is «not their mother» and only cares about results.

“If you work in public relations, don't wait for the weekend,” Ms. Qu said. «Keep your phone on 24 hours a day so it's always ready to answer.»

In a warning to anyone thinking of complaining, she added that it could leave you «unable to find a job in this industry.» with a short essay.”

The video sparked backlash online, with some calling her out of touch.

Ms Qu apologized after the posts went viral, saying she accepted the criticism and her views did not reflect Baidu's. Baidu did not comment.

She wrote on WeChat: “I apologize that the inappropriate videos have caused the public to misunderstand my company’s values ​​and corporate culture.”

“I will learn from own mistakes and improve your communication, as well as care more about your colleagues.»

Alibaba founder Jack Ma previously supported «996&#39»; weeks — working from 9:00 to 21:00 six days a week Photo: Charles Platio/REUTERS

Commentators noted the irony of the public relations crisis, given that Ms. Qu heads Baidu's public relations department.< /p>

The saga has shed light on practices in China's technology sector. Jack Ma, the founder of Internet giant Alibaba, previously supported what he calls «996» weeks — working from 9:00 to 21:00 six days a week.

The global downturn in the technology sector has led to increased competition and renewed concerns about toxic work practices, especially in China, where the economy is in recession.

Chinese social media group Kuaishou last month began laying off employees over 35 as part of a reorganization known internally as «Limestone» » Sources told the Financial Times

Older workers are seen as less likely to work long hours given increased family responsibilities. Kuaishou declined to comment to the FT.