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Case Studies
Tipping off about the sack
Edmond introduced his friend Anthony to work under his wing in a small I.T. company. Felix, the company boss, had complained to Edmond for several months about Anthony’s work performance. Anthony’s procrastination and being unnecessarily thorough was well-known in the company. Felix just managed to tolerate the situation because he did not want to upset Edmond who brought large profits to the company. Felix also told Edmond in confidence that Anthony was not the person whom the company needed and could be replaced by someone who was more efficient and yet cheaper.
As a friend, Edmond wondered if he should personally warn Anthony in advance so that Anthony could get prepared. If Felix was right, terminating Anthony might be for the best interest of the company as well as for Edmond to maintain a good relationship with Felix. On the other hand, leaking out the news in advance might also damage Felix’s trust and affect staff morale.
To tell Anthony or not to tell Anthony? That was the question worrying Edmond!
Case Analysis
Edmond was facing an ethical dilemma that might put his personal values such as honesty, responsibility and compassion to challenge. In handling the situation, Edmond should identify the relevant facts and take stock of all stakeholders concerned. The following factors should be taken into consideration when identifying viable alternatives and choosing the best course of action:
- Any violation to his professional, industry specific, or company code of conduct?
- Is it against the Law?
- Does it correspond with his self-values such as honesty, responsibility and compassion?
- Can he disclose his decision to others openly and honestly without misgivings?
The ETHICS PLUS ethical decision making model might be helpful for him in solving this ethical.