1.
Conducting personal business on company time (sending personal messages on company email; taking a longer lunch break to run errands).
Correct Answer
C. Clearly Unethical (the wrong thing to do)
Explanation
Conducting personal business on company time, such as sending personal messages on company email or taking a longer lunch break to run errands, is clearly unethical. This behavior goes against the principles of professionalism and integrity. It shows a lack of respect for the company's resources and time, and it can negatively impact productivity and overall work environment. Employees should prioritize their work responsibilities during working hours and handle personal matters outside of work.
2.
Using or taking company supplies for personal purposes (tape for gift wrapping, making Xerox copies for your child's schoolwork)
Correct Answer
C. Clearly Unethical (the wrong thing to do)
Explanation
Using or taking company supplies for personal purposes is clearly unethical because it involves misusing resources that are intended for business purposes. It is a form of theft and can result in financial losses for the company. Additionally, it shows a lack of respect for the company's property and can damage trust and morale within the workplace. Employees should always use company supplies responsibly and for their intended purposes only.
3.
Calling in sick when you are heading for a day at the beach to swim.
Correct Answer
C. Clearly Unethical
Explanation
The given scenario of calling in sick when planning to go to the beach for leisure is clearly unethical. Calling in sick implies that one is unable to work due to illness, which is a dishonest representation of the situation. This behavior not only violates the trust of the employer but also disrupts the work environment and potentially affects colleagues who may have to take on additional responsibilities. It is important to maintain honesty and integrity in professional settings, making this action clearly unethical.
4.
Telling or passing along an ethnically or sexually-oriented joke.
Correct Answer
C. Clearly Unethical
Explanation
Telling or passing along an ethnically or sexually-oriented joke is considered clearly unethical because it perpetuates stereotypes, promotes discrimination, and can create a hostile or uncomfortable environment for others. Such jokes can be offensive, disrespectful, and hurtful to individuals or groups based on their ethnicity or gender. Engaging in such behavior goes against principles of equality, respect, and inclusivity, making it clearly unethical.
5.
Bad-mouthing the company or management to people outside the company.
Correct Answer
C. Clearly unethical
Explanation
Bad-mouthing the company or management to people outside the company is considered clearly unethical. This behavior damages the reputation of the company and can create a negative perception among outsiders. It shows a lack of professionalism and loyalty towards the organization. Engaging in such behavior can lead to mistrust, strained relationships, and potential harm to the company's success.
6.
Calling a customer to report a small billing error that will require your company to give them a refund.
Correct Answer
A. Clearly Ethical
Explanation
The correct answer is "Clearly Ethical" because calling a customer to report a small billing error and offering them a refund demonstrates honesty and integrity. It shows that the company values their customers and is committed to rectifying any mistakes made. This action promotes trust and transparency, which are essential in maintaining good customer relationships.
7.
Ignoring an organizational rule or procedure.
Correct Answer
C. Clearly unethical.
Explanation
The given answer "Clearly unethical" suggests that ignoring an organizational rule or procedure is a clear violation of ethical standards. This indicates that the act is not just slightly questionable or ambiguous, but rather a blatant disregard for established guidelines. It implies that the action is morally wrong and goes against the principles of integrity and fairness that should be upheld in an organization.
8.
Explaining behavior on the job with "nobody told me not to do this".
Correct Answer
B. Clearly unethical
Explanation
That's why they have "New Hire Training" and a company policy handbook -- you are responsible for understanding everything in the handbook.
9.
Failing to follow through on something promised by date and time, without negotiating the deadline.
Correct Answer
C. Clearly unethical
Explanation
The given answer, "Clearly unethical," is the most appropriate explanation for the situation described. Failing to fulfill a promise without negotiating the deadline is a breach of trust and shows a lack of respect for commitments made. It is considered unethical because it demonstrates a disregard for the expectations and trust of others.
10.
Engaging in negative gossip or spreading rumors about someone you work with.
Correct Answer
C. Clearly unethical
Explanation
Engaging in negative gossip or spreading rumors about someone you work with is clearly unethical. This behavior can harm the reputation and well-being of the individual being targeted, as well as create a toxic work environment. It violates principles of respect, fairness, and professionalism. Engaging in such behavior goes against ethical standards and can have serious consequences for both the person spreading the rumors and the person being affected by them.