RESOLVING ETHICAL BUSINESS CHALLENGES
(Ferrell, Fraedrich, dan Ferrell, Business Ethics Cases)
Candace always tried to do the right thing but did not know that
to do in this dilemma. She knew someone would get hurt. All because
of an overzealous supervisor, she thought sadly. Two years ago,
Candace took a job at ABCO Corporation in its public relations
division. Although new to the corporate world, Candace quickly
learned the ropes of the highly bureaucratic organization and
excelled at many of her projects. As a result, her bosses assigned
her more lucrative responsibilities. The only downside the job
Candace could see was many people appeared to be promoted based
more upon their relationships with their superiors than their
merit. While Candace knew her work was excellent, she could not
help but wonder whether her friendly repertoire with her immediate
supervisors had anything to do with her success so far. A few
months ago, Candace learned her division would be getting a new
supervisor. Britney transferred to her division from a similar
position in another subsidiary of the company because of her proven
talent for organizing and improving the efficiency of operations
there. A no-nonsense type of manager, Britney was experienced and
determined to be successful in this assignment as well. Candace
knew from Britney’s reputation that her success had everything to
do with hard work and commitment to make sure everyone else was
working just as hard. On the day Britney assumed her
responsibilities as the new division manager, the company held a
reception for her to meet the employees. At the reception, Britney
circulated throughout the room, introducing herself to people and
asking each of them if they had any suggestions that would make the
section a better place to work. When she approached Candace,
Candace decided to let her know what was bothering her. “I don’t
want to make waves or anything, but one thing I’ve noticed
happening recently is some people seem to gain promotions and are
given opportunities to work overtime based on who likes them and
not on the quality of their work,” Candace told her. She quickly
continued. “It’s not that people here don’t work hard or anything.
It’s just that I noticed there might some favoritism going on in
some of the major personnel decision.” Britney looked concerned but
smiled at Candace. “Thank you for telling me, Candace. I assure you
I will do everything in my power to make sure this problem does not
continue. This kind of thing has no place in the team I’m going to
lead.” The next day, Britney requested Candace meet with her. As
Candace entered Britney’s office for the meeting, Britney looked
her straight in the face and said, “I will not tolerate individuals
in this organization who are not team players. Yesterday afternoon
you led me to believe there are people in this office who are not
acting in the best interest of the company, and I want to know who.
These people have no place in this division.” Candace was stunned.
She did not want to hurt anyone. She just wanted to express her
concerns in the hopes certain practices would change. 2 When she
did not answer right away, Britney looked at her with annoyance.
“Look.” she said, “I want you to tell me the names of the managers
you were referring to now and keep me informed if you see anyone
hurting this company, or I’ve got to think maybe you’re part of the
problems around here.” Candace tried to explain. “I’m sorry,” she
said. “I didn’t want to implicate anyone in particular. I just
wanted to alert you to some concerns I’ve been having…” Britney cut
Candace off before she could continue. “Candace, you seem like a
smart person. I’m trying to create an example here. There are no
shortcuts in this job. You work hard, or you get out. I’ve got no
room for slackers. Now once again, who are the managers you were
talking about?” Candace’s heart races in her chest and she felt
close to tears. Britney noticed because she sighted exasperatedly.
“Fine. Here’s what I’ll do. We’ll set up another meeting tomorrow
and talk then. That’ll will give you time to think about where your
priorities lie.” Candace sat at her desk, her work forgotten. She
could not believe the mess she had gotten herself into. If she told
Britney what she wanted, certain managers would get disciplined or
perhaps even fired. Of course, it would be her word against theirs,
so Candace knew she faced the risk of being thought of as someone
who was just trying to make trouble. At the very least, the
managers she named would dislike her for reporting them. But if she
refused Britney, she risk the ire of her new boss.
Questions/Exercises:
1. Describe the organization structure of ABCO organization.
(20)
2. Which type of leadership power is Britney using? (20)
3. Do you feel it is effective in this situation? (30)
4. Does Candace have any other alternatives than the two that
she is considering? (30)
RESOLVING ETHICAL BUSINESS CHALLENGES (Ferrell, Fraedrich, dan Ferrell, Business Ethics Cases) Candace always tried to d
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