Chapter Four

Learning Objectives

After finish this chapter, the students will be able to:1. Define ethics and discuss what behaviors are

considered unethical in the workplace –cube corporation

2. Explain what a code of ethics & describe what a code of ethics typically covers – jaguar sdn. Bhd.

3. Discuss the role that supervisors play in setting the ethical tone of an organization - abc123 sdn. Bhd.

4. Identify the major areas that require ethical conduct by supervisors - abc123 sdn. Bhd.

Cont…learning outcomes

5. Describe how a supervisor should follow when dealing with a dishonest subordinate –peneroka uthm corporation

6. Define organization politics & how to make your boss happy – jub’z crew bhd.

7. Discuss several guidelines that supervisors should follow when socializing with other members of the organization – aerosenterprise

Ethics ???• Is a discipline focused on the

rightness and wrongness of human conduct in society in light of specific sets of circumstances &

• Concerned with moral duties• The application of ethics is an

individual consideration….cheating, lying, stealing, etc..

Ethics In The Workplace

• Not everyone agrees about what is ethical or unethical at work

• Example???

Code of Ethics

• A code of ethics is a written statement of principles that should be followed in the conduct of business.

• The code must be communicated to all employees-company mailings, bulletin board postings, general announcements, etc.

• The code must be actively supported by all levels of managers

Content of Ethical Codes

• Honesty• Adherence to the law• Product/ service safety & quality• Financial reporting• Pricing, billing & contracting• Employment practices

Setting the Tone

• Employees’ notions of what is acceptable and not acceptable are based on the supervisor’s actions

• The supervisor’s failure to take corrective action in certain situations can also affect the behavior of the employees

Areas Requiring Ethical Conduct By Supervisors

• Loyalty– Supervisors who are viewed as being interested only

in themselves and their future will have difficulty in getting the full cooperation of employees

• Human relations– This category centers on the supervisor’s concept of

fairness, particularly in the treatment of subordinates

• Overt personal actions– This category includes the supervisor’s behavior

within the company and how they handle themselves in the community

Dealing With Dishonest Employees

A. Dealing with dishonest subordinatesA. Recognize the problem, get the facts, and document

the caseB. Confront the employeeC. Follow the established disciplinary system

B. Dealing with dishonest peers or other managersB. You may not be able to deal directly with the

problemC. In most cases, report your suspicions and findings to

your boss and let them confront those involved

Building a Supervisory Power Base

• Gain the respect of subordinates• Be in “good” with your boss• Help employees be successful• Seek responsibility

Organization Politics

Organization politics refer to the practice of using means other than merit or good performance for bettering your position or gaining favor in the organization.

Supervisors should understand organization politics and how to use them in a positive and ethical manner.

Organization Politics

• How to keep your boss happy– Know your boss– Be loyal– Show respect for your boss– Seize opportunities to make your boss look

good– Avoid antagonizing other departments– Insist on feedback– Help take the load off your boss

Socializing With Other Members of the

Organization• There are no hard-and-fast rules. The following

general guidelines are suggested:– Do not be overly anxious to socialize with subordinates

or superiors– Use common sense– Be yourself– Do not try to use your rank when socializing with

subordinates– Do not make any work-related promises to subordinates

while socializing– Do not date or become romantically involved with

subordinates