Topic > Ethical Dilemma Case Study - 1453

Everyone in this world has experienced an ethical dilemma in different situations and this may arise between one or more individuals. Ethical dilemma is a situation in which people must make complex decisions and are influenced based on personal interests, environment or social norms, and religious beliefs (“Strategic Leadership,” n.d.). Company leaders and managers should establish guidelines to ensure that employees are aware and have a better chance of solving and making ethical decisions. Employees are also responsible for understanding their ethical obligations in order to maintain a positive work environment. The purpose of this case study is to identify the dilemma and analyze different decisions to find ways on how a person should act. According to the scenario, Jacob and Krystal worked at an advertising agency founded five years ago in Topeka, Kansas. The advertising agency was barely making a profit and needed a large client, which led the agency to bid for a contract with the city government. Since Jacob's son was sick, he was worried about taking care of his son and left most of the work to Krystal. Krystal prepared the presentation and met with Jacob the day before the final client meeting. Krystal knew that Jacob had good speaking skills and they both decided that Jacob would give the presentation. Jacob's presentation was a success and they successfully closed the contract. The company owners were so impressed and gave Jacob a $10,000 bonus check. Jacob saw this opportunity where he could use the money for his son's medical expenses. However, he knew that Krystal did most of the work and deserved the bonus money. Jacob is disappointed and his situation has left him with the decision of what to do with the money. This case study will identify Jacob's ethical dilemma and what ethical action he should take. Additionally, the roles and responsibilities of an employee who is faced with an ethical situation, as well as how an organization maintains ethical practices in the workplace. With Jacob's financial pressure, his integrity is shaken because he wants to use the money to pay bills and Jacob hasn't told Krystal about it. Jacob must put aside his personal matters and communicate his medical situation and bonus money to Krystal. By doing so, Jacob will maintain his honesty and not let his personal interest be in how the resulting trust will be maintained within the workplace. Additionally, the bonus money can be split equally between the two. Employees have the responsibility to follow and maintain company ethics and the code of ethics in the workplace. Employees must be honest, communicate at all levels of the organization, address issues at the lowest level possible, and avoid conflicts of interest that would lead to unethical decisions. Additionally, employees should be educated on the policy and regulations established by the company in order to maintain ethical practices in the workplace. Jacob and employees in general are bombarded with ethical questions and respecting their roles and responsibilities will guide them in making an ethical decision. The following five-step model can help employees make appropriate decisions when faced with an ethical dilemma. The first step is to recognize the problem. Know what the main and root cause is