Ethical vs Unethical Behaviors In The Workplace
ETHICAL vs. UNETHICAL BEHAVIOR
Ethical Behavior refers to conduct that is in accordance to the laid down standards of a society, organization or institution. Ethical behavior is to be nurtured within an individual from an early age. Without strong moral convictions, one can be easily swayed to engage in contrary behaviors.
Ethical Behavior refers to conduct that is in accordance to the laid down standards of a society, organization or institution. Ethical behavior is to be nurtured within an individual from an early age. Without strong moral convictions, one can be easily swayed to engage in contrary behaviors.
- Ethical behavior in society: This varies from place to place. Behaviors that are considered unethical in one society may be acceptable in another.
- For example: it is an unethical social behavior to engage in favoritism in the public.
- Refusing to relate with others on the basis of their age, gender or their race are also examples of unethical social behaviors.
- Ethical behavior within the work place: This refers to conduct that organizations expect their employees to hold while at work. Most organizations have documents referred to as 'CODES OF CONDUCT', that set out the accepted behaviors within the work place. They have set out the rules and regulations that need to be adhered to by their employees. This is mainly because an individual's conduct can affect the relationships within an organization, which may cause a negative toll on the overall performance of an organization.
- Employee's UNETHICAL behavior:
- In any organization, it is unethical of an employee to be corrupt. Employees should not accept or give out bribes in exchange for services or goods. An employee who engages in corruption is said to have acted in an unethical manner.
- Taking excessive breaks or repeated sick leave are also unethical behaviors. This should only happen when there is a serious need to do so. Mild headaches do not count.
- Taking office supplies home is totally unethical. Office property should be kept separately from one's personal property. In some organizations, this conduct can be translated to theft.
- Employer's UNETHICAL behavior: It is not only employees who can behave in unethical ways. Employers also have a common code of conduct and are required to act in a given manner.
- For instance, an employer is not supposed to use the company money for his personal expenses.
- Employers should not engage in harassment.
Examples of Ethical & Unethical Behavior
Showing Disrespect Towards Others
Accepting Diversity
Power Struggle