Ethics in the Workplace Needed More Than Ever

During your career, you will face morally ambiguous situations. While your alternatives may be legal, even profitable, they may not be ethical. Ethical behavior may not pay off right away, but in theslong run, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

Examine the following scenario, and identify the ethical guidelines that will help a business maintain a high ethical standard.

You are about to speak at a press conference to announce how last fall's unseasonably hot weather damaged crops. You realize this information could have a negative effect on the company's stock prices.

Is it necessary to be completely honest about how badly the crops have suffered?

Maybe, if there is enough positive news available to offset the negative news.

Yes, stockholders have a right to know how their investment is doing.

No$,$ stockholders need only a general sense of the situation.

If you decide to make an announcement about the damaged crops at the press conference, what would be the best way to relate the bad news?

You should deny requests for questions after you have completed your speech.

You should use agricultural jargon to minimize the impact.

You should speak clearly and simply to ensure comprehension.