Situation

Don Sutton applied for a payroll clerk job with Search Services, a market research firm. To improve his chances in getting the job, he exaggerated his work experience on his rsum. Based on this rsum, Don was hired. After one year, he received above-average ratings during his annual performance review. Shortly thereafter, his boss met Dons former supervisor and learned the truth.

Instructions

Use the three-step checklist to help determine whether or not Dons action demonstrated ethical behavior. (Suggested answers are provided here.)

1. Is the action illegal? No. Overstating qualifications is not illegal, but the employer could terminate your employment.

2. Does the action violate company or professional standards? No. Don was neither an employee of the company nor a member of any profession.

3. Who is affected, and how, by the action? Don: He obtained employment, but now he could be terminated. If retained, he could have difficulty being promoted. Other applicants: More highly qualified applicants lost an opportunity for employment. Search Services: Managers may lose trust in employees.

Based on the above analysis, Dons actions were unethical.

1. When Don exaggerated his experience on his rsum, do you think he believed he would be caught? What effect did this belief have on his behavior?

2. If you were Dons employer, would you fire him? Why or why not?

3. If you were another applicant for the job Don applied for, would you be tempted to do the same as Don? Why or why not

Employers and employees have a unique relationship. The employee agrees to provide the employer with a fair days work.

In return, the employer agrees to provide a fair days wage.

Instructions

Use the three-step checklist to determine whether or not the following situations demonstrate ethical behavior.