5. Communicating ethically

Consider this scenario and then identify the reason Bobby is making an unethical decision.

Bobby is a recent graduate with a business degree. After college, Bobby is hired to work as an entry-level assistant at a family friends bio-tech research firm. Although the position isnt Bobbys dream job, he sees it as a stepping stone into a promising company in an industry he is intent on entering.

Two months into the job, Bobby has distinguished himself and been promoted to assistant account supervisor. Even the head of the division has noticed Bobbys potential and mentioned it to the CEO, who is a friend of Bobbys family. Shortly after his promotion, Bobbys supervisor asks him to complete a few forms to report the allocation of federal grant money the division received for a two-year study.

While he is preparing the forms, Bobby notices that there are reporting discrepancies between actual expenditures and the figures in the report. When he brings the issue to his supervisors attention, the supervisor tells Bobby, Camouflage the gaps.

Bobby is very concerned by his supervisors request. He is uncomfortable and doesnt want to do it, but Bobby knows that he has the opportunity to be promoted rapidly in this organization and wants to demonstrate that he is 100 percent committed to the companys success. Consequently, he makes the unethical choice and falsifies the records at his supervisors request.

5A. Why did Bobby make an unethical decision in this situation?

a. He rationalized his choice.

b. He did what he had to do in order to win.

c. He took the most convenient option.

Select the best response to each of the following questions.

5B. Corporate social responsibility means that:

a. Companies consider the publics interest in their business practices

b. Corporate officers are required to consider the well-being of the communities where they do business before they consider profits

c. Companies are legally obligated to protect the planet

5C. What is the benefit of applying an ethical framework for decision making?

a. You gain valuable insight into human behavior.

b. You learn the difference between right and wrong.

c. You preserve your integrity and reputation.