Question

I also think it is very important to be transparent and have exemplary communication skills. Years ago (well now that I think of, time flies, I think I will say many years ago). I worked for a large organization as a manager. The organization was struggling financially (at least in their eyes) and for my division, it became known that there was a "layoff list". I became privy to that list somewhat accidentally as someone left it on the copier (I know but these things happen!). I saw that one of my best friends at work was on the list. This person did not work for me, but I worked closely with them on many projects. I am all for transparency but struggled in deciding what to do - do I tell them or not, what would you do?

Answer 1

Faced with such a situation I won't look at what is ethical or not. Currently the company has already decided to fire my best friend. I'll consider it my job to let him know that it's time he start searching for a job so that he doesn't get the shock of getting fired. Also, when it comes to recruiting, a recruiter will prefer an already working guy rather than a fired one. So, I'll be transparent about what I have seen, request him to not create an issue with the managers and slowly but steadily work his way to another job.