I forgot my security badge at my desk yesterday and have to go in early to let the new lawyer in this morning so I’m hoping someone violates our security procedures and waves me into the restricted area that lets me access the elevators or this is gonna be a bad first impression.

I feel your pain. When I forget my badge I have to wave my arms through the window and hope my coworker will see me. And open door before she collapses from giggles.

I feel you there.... Hope it works out fine for you.

There's always a fuck up showing the new hire around

If you worked for weyland yutani someone would let you in no problem

Or it shows the new hire that security is taken seriously and everyone has to follow procedures! I had a temp job on a reception desk once and was terrified when I realised the person I hadn't recognised and called back to make them sign in was the big boss up for a high level meeting for the day!

Could be worse: I onboarded two new staff on 9/11/2001.

Naw, actually, you could spin this if questioned on it. Stress the importance of keeping your badge on you, and also the process to get it back if ever misplaced.

Oh I wish I had been here in time. Take a 3x5 card, write in sharpie "It Me" Flash it at the person & they will wave you through.

Play it off as a test of their security awareness

As a security person, I'd be more than happy to help by sending you back to either a visitor center to get cleared for a visitor badge or after verifying your Identification with your driver's license I'll be escorting you to your office while someone else is covering the point of entry.