Question

Having done well in his job as a staff accountant in the accounts payable department of a major industrial firm for several years since his college graduation, Steven was relaxed as he entered the employee lounge to attend the late-afternoon welcoming reception for his new supervisor, Kristin.

At the reception, Kristen circulated through the room, introducing herself to her new direct reports and asking each of them if they had suggestions that would help make the accounts payable department a better place to work. When she approached Steven, he told her about something that had been on his mind lately: that people seemed to gain promotions and be given paid overtime opportunities based on who liked them, and not on the quality of their work. Kristen politely thanked him for his comment and noted that she would look into it.

Upon his arrival at work the next day, Kristen called Steven into her office. As he sat down, Kristen said, “I will not tolerate individuals in this organization who are not good team players. Yesterday afternoon you led me to believe that there are people in this office who are not acting in the best interests of this company. I want you to tell me the names of the managers you were referring to, or I’ve got to think that you’re part of the problems around here.” Stunned by both the tone and content of her statement, Steven tried to think of a way to respond.

Place yourself in the position of Steven and respond to the following question. Make sure you explain your answer.

1. Describe the ethical dilemma that Steven is facing.

Answer 1

ANSWER :

1)

Ethical Dilemma: Here Steven has the dilemma to save his job against saving the jobs of the employees creating problems in the department. The employees who are favoured, the supervisors who favour such employees, account payable team members who do are not part of these groups, top management are the relevant stakeholders in this case. The employees who are not in the favoured employees group will also be affected seriously, as they will get wrong message in either way